(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said attempts to exploit the hardships of people displaced from border areas for political gain are unlikely to succeed, arguing that those affected have witnessed government assistance firsthand.

The premier spoke on Wednesday (Oct. 7) while presiding over the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the University of Health Sciences in Phnom Penh.

“People displaced from the border areas understand these hardships very clearly, and they can clearly see who is genuinely helping them,” Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said.

He added that the Royal Government continues negotiations aimed at creating conditions for displaced residents to return home when circumstances permit.

The premier underlined that border communities and people across Cambodia have seen the government’s efforts to assist those affected, arguing that selectively editing remarks or taking statements out of context to portray the government as indifferent to citizens does not reflect the situation on the ground.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Hun Manet urged the public to judge the government by its actions, stressing that protecting territorial integrity, public safety and the livelihoods of affected communities remains a priority.
=FRESH NEWS