Cambodia's military recruitment drive tops target by 50%

What happened: Cambodia began training its first group of new soldiers after nearly 15,000 young people volunteered for an initial intake of 10,000, part of a defense expansion that includes a military draft. Key numbers: Nearly 15,000 volunteers against an initial intake of 10,000, about 50% above target. Why it matters: The recruitment drive follows last year's deadly border conflict with Thailand and is part of efforts to strengthen the country's defenses.

Cambodia began training its first group of new soldiers after nearly 15,000 young people volunteered for an initial intake of 10,000, part of a defense expansion that includes a military draft.

The recruitment drive follows last year's deadly border conflict with Thailand and is part of efforts to strengthen the country's defenses.