Cambodia, US Expand Defence Cooperation in Pentagon Talks

WASHINGTON, July 23, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and the United States have agreed to deepen military cooperation during high‑level talks at the Pentagon, marking a reset in defence relations ahead of the revival of the Angkor Sentinel Exercise in 2027.

Lieutenant General Rath Dararoth, Secretary of State at Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence, led a Royal Cambodian Armed Forces delegation to the fourth Cambodia–United States Defence Policy Dialogue on July 22.

He was received by Lori D. Abele, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia, and her team.

According to Cambodia’s Defence Ministry, discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in joint military exercises, human resource development, professional military education, and other areas of mutual interest. Dararoth also briefed U.S.

officials on the latest developments along the Cambodia–Thailand border, expressing appreciation for Washington’s constructive engagement.

The Pentagon dialogue follows the U.S. decision in 2025 to lift restrictions on defence cooperation with Cambodia, citing progress in rebuilding military ties.

That move paved the way for expanded engagement, including high‑level dialogues, military education, humanitarian cooperation, and planning for future joint exercises.

In June, soldiers from U.S. Army Pacific and the Idaho Army National Guard met Cambodian military leaders at the National Centre for Peacekeeping, Mines, and Explosive Remnants of War to plan Angkor Sentinel 2027.

The exercise, suspended since 2016, is set to resume next year, underscoring both countries’ commitment to interoperability and regional security.

The Pentagon talks highlight a shared determination to strengthen defence capacity, build confidence, and reinforce peace and stability across Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile in Manila, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to ASEAN, announcing US$2.5 billion in strategic investments and pledging long‑term partnership.

He stressed ASEAN remains central to US engagement in the region, calling Southeast Asia a key driver of global growth.