Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 19 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that patriotism is not the only principle he upholds, but also the commitment of the Hun family, speaking on Wednesday (Feb. 19) at the graduation for students of the Asia Europe University, held at Diamond Island Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Samdech Thipadei highlighted that from 2008 to 2011, during the conflict with Thailand over Preah Vihear, citizens supported the government, while Samdech Techo Hun Sen personally led efforts to resolve the crisis. Despite not being a deputy commander of the armed forces, he directly intervened on the battlefield with a small group to manage the situation.
“In 2008, when the armed conflict erupted, Samdech Techo’s government mobilised our forces, including the 42nd Division. I was there while shells were still landing. I sent forces from my own unit, the Special Forces, to the frontline. I was at the battlefield headquarters, just a few kilometres from the mountain. First, the Thai army moved in, and then we advanced, shaking the ground. I witnessed wounded soldiers on the battlefield and civilians suffering in refugee camps. It was heart-breaking. To those who now claim to be patriots, where was your patriotism then?” the premier underscored.
“Not only did you fail to contribute, but when we celebrated Preah Vihear Temple’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Son Chhay dismissed it as a political ploy by the Cambodian People’s Party. Why should negotiations with Thailand be about economic interests instead of national sovereignty?” he added.
Samdech Thipadei continued, “As deputy commander of the ground forces at that time, I led peace talks with the Thai military in Chom district to de-escalate the fighting. Alongside Srey Duc, I played my role in securing stability. Those who now call me a traitor—where were you then? I am just as patriotic as anyone else. My father, my family—we have always been patriots. We implemented the win-win policy that ended over 500 years of war and suffering for our people. If that is not patriotism, then what is?”
The premier added that under Samdech Techo’s leadership, government officials have strengthened all sectors, including education, to empower Cambodian next generation with knowledge and opportunities.
Samdech Thipadei also pointed out that during times of national crisis—whether it be territorial disputes with Thailand or the COVID19 pandemic—he has never seen politicians abroad boasting about their patriotism. Instead, it has always been the Hun family that has stood by the people, unwavering in every circumstance. He urged politicians not to exploit national issues for political gain, warning that Cambodia had already endured enough conflict in 2008 and should not be drawn into further disputes.
=FRESH NEWS
