1 October 2024
During Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE), HMAS Perth made a visit to Sihanoukville, Cambodia, fostering cooperation and mutual understanding between the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces.
During the visit, eight women from the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces embarked on Perth for a gender, peace and security workshop.
The workshop aimed to promote education, training and collaboration, highlighting the importance of gender equity in military operations.
The event also included a ship tour, firefighting demonstration and a lunch hosted by women serving on Perth.
Women from various departments across Perth shared their knowledge and experiences, highlighting career opportunities in the Royal Australian Navy.
Acting Sub-Lieutenant Jemma Bayer emphasised the significance of the visit.
“It was a fantastic opportunity to deepen Australia and Cambodia's cooperation around gender, peace and security, as well as share knowledge and deepen friendships between our two countries,” she said.
Lieutenant Chea Sreneart, of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, praised the capabilities of female officers in the Australian Navy.
“They are knowledgeable across many systems, and we will try to do our best, like the Australian Navy,” Lieutenant Sreneart said.
At an official reception on board Perth, the ADF reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, hosting a series of high-level engagements with Cambodian officials.
Commanding Officer Perth Commander Ben Dalton welcomed distinguished guests, including Commander IPE Commodore Michael Harris, Secretary of the Ministry of National Defence General Yun Min and Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Derek Yip.
Commodore Harris said Australia was dedicated to maintaining regional partnerships.
“As Australia’s flagship regional engagement activity, IPE demonstrates Australia’s commitment to working with our partners across the region. Working together as friends and partners towards our shared vision of peace and security in the Indo-Pacific,” Commodore Harris said.
Leaders discussed future cooperation opportunities and highlighted shared experiences and goals of maintaining regional peace and prosperity.
