The China-Cambodia joint support and training center at Ream port, Cambodia, was officially inaugurated on Saturday and began operations, the Chinese Defense Ministry announced.

The center will support regional counterterrorism efforts, disaster prevention and mitigation, humanitarian rescue and joint training activities between the two militaries, the ministry said in a statement.

Both sides will dispatch necessary personnel to jointly maintain the normal operation of the center, it said.

The construction and operation of the center reflect mutual respect and equal consultation between China and Cambodia, in accordance with the domestic laws of both countries, relevant international laws and international practices, the ministry said, noting that "it is not directed against any third party".

The center will further strengthen practical cooperation between the two militaries and better fulfill international obligations and provide international public security products, it said.