Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 27 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that the Cambodia Daily newspaper took refuge under a news media industry but acted dishonourably.

The premier spoke on Wednesday (Dec. 27) during an inauguration ceremony for Cheung Aek Sewage Treatment Plant in Phnom Penh.

The Cambodia Daily published an article on 26 December 2023, which claimed that a senior official from the Ministry of Economy and Finance disclosed information indicating that the Royal Government of Cambodia borrowed not only USD 1.7 billion from China for the Funan Techo Canal but also additional USD 5 billion for the canal, ports, and addressing Cambodia's economic crisis.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underscored, "Ninety per cent of the world's goods are still transported by water because it can be transported in bulk, and it is cost-effective. Therefore, establishing another waterway in our territory is not to concede a portion to Vietnam. Instead, it is to connect freshwater and saltwater ports for the benefit of our people, especially those engaged in business.”

“[…] The narrative propagated by this group of 20 individuals taking refuge under the Cambodia Daily newspaper, residing abroad, creates stories daily […] it lacks a basic level of professional ethics. It doesn't find refuge under the term 'media' but rather acts in a demeaning manner,” the premier added.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet further encouraged journalists to adhere to professional ethics by disseminating accurate information from all perspectives. He expressed the government's lack of fear regarding negative news, as such information serves as a basis for the Royal Government to address issues.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei highlighted that foreign opposition groups are primarily focused on opposing. He underscored Winston Churchill's quote, "You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks."
=FRESH NEWS