# China's Military Moves in Southeast Asia

> China opens new military bases in Laos and Cambodia, deepening regional influence.
- Title: China's Military Moves in Southeast Asia · Dw | Shortify
- Summary: China opens new military bases in Laos and Cambodia, deepening regional influence.
- Keywords: china, laos, cambodia, military cooperation, south china sea, asean treaty, joint military training
- Source: Dw — https://dw.com/en/new-facilities-in-laos-and-cambodia-is-china-expanding-its-military-presence-in-southeast-asia/a-79944798?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: china, laos, cambodia, military cooperation, south china sea, asean treaty, joint military training, news, world, politics
## China's military diplomacy in Southeast Asia
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi invited Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar to Beijing in early November 2024 for closer economic and security cooperation.
## New military base in Laos
China and Laos opened a joint military support and training center north of Vientiane in September 2024 for Laotian air force pilot training.
## Cambodia's Ream naval base
China expanded its presence at Cambodia's Ream naval base for logistics and training, with Japanese and Vietnamese ships docking at a southern quay.
## Military access concerns
Experts warn China's military access to Southeast Asia remains uncertain, with the Ban Keun airfield too short for large bombers.
## Strategic implications
China could gain strategic depth in mainland Southeast Asia and better military access to the South China Sea through these facilities.
## Regional reactions
Southeast Asian nations are hedging their relationships with China while maintaining ties with the US and Western economies.
## Future military cooperation
Experts say China's military cooperation with Laos and Cambodia may deepen over time but not yet form a broader alliance.
## Key takeaway

China is expanding military cooperation with Laos and Cambodia, gaining strategic access to the South China Sea.