Answer: Cambodia
Notes: The Ream Naval Base is on Cambodia’s Gulf of Thailand coast near Sihanoukville and recently gained global attention due to its expansion and China’s involvement. On April 5, 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the expanded base, supported financially and technically by China. Cambodia claims the expansion supports its national defense, but concerns remain over possible Chinese military use. The base is close to the Malacca Strait, a key route for global trade and energy transport. China’s role suggests it aims to boost its influence in the Indo-Pacific and strengthen its naval presence near the South China Sea.
