US imposes arms embargo on Cambodia over China, human rights concerns

Washington sanctioned two Cambodian officials in November 2021 over a US-funded naval base that is increasingly being renovated for use by China. - Reuters

WASHINGTON Dec 9, 2021 (AFP): The US government on Wednesday night (Dec 8) imposed an arms embargo on Cambodia, citing concerns about human rights and corruption in the South-East Asian nation as well as China's activities there.

The actions taken by the State and Commerce departments will "restrict" access to "less-sensitive military items" and "defense articles and defense services" by Cambodia's military and intelligence agencies, according to a statement.