Cambodian observers say recent cooperation with the United States on controlling the trade of weapons of mass destruction demonstrates Cambodia’s improved diplomatic approach, avoiding the alignment with any single power as seen in the past.
Man Nat, head of the Cambodian Monitoring Council, told The Cambodia Daily that Cambodia’s participation in the joint efforts to regulate arms trade represents a correct course for the country. It strengthens Cambodia’s ability to combat illegal arms trafficking and curb the production of weapons of mass destruction.
He added that this cooperation could also protect Cambodia from the future use of military weapons by neighboring countries, citing the example of Thailand, which deployed US-supplied F-16 fighter jets over Cambodian territory during a five-day conflict in late July.
Man Nat encouraged the Cambodian government to further develop its military, economic, and diplomatic ties with the United States. He highlighted the importance of enforcing legal measures against criminals linked to officials, saying that effective law enforcement is key to building trust with the US and strengthening Cambodia’s security.
On October 1, 2025, the US embassy in Cambodia posted on its Facebook page that both countries had agreed on cooperation to implement strategies controlling the trade of weapons of mass destruction. The embassy said the initiative also aims to support economic growth while enhancing border security and regulating the exchange of arms-related goods between Cambodia and the United States.
Meanwhile, on September 15, 2025, the Cambodian National Assembly approved a draft law ratifying additional agreements under the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone treaty. The legislation is intended to promote regional and global peace and security, and help establish Southeast Asia as free from nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction.
