Part 5/8:
China's vested interest in Cambodia extends beyond economic support; it sees the Fanto Canal as part of its broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This project aligns with China’s "String of Pearls" strategy, which aims to establish a network of influence across Asia-Pacific through strategic infrastructure investments in key regions.
The canal not only symbolizes commercial intent but also serves military strategies, enhancing China’s foothold and influence in Southeast Asia. While the canal's depth limits its military applications to smaller coastal fleets, its proximity to the Re Naval Base raises concerns about potential Chinese military activities in the region.