Phnom Penh (FN), Mar, 14 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet criticised overseas opposition groups that claim to be patriots while attempting to incite conflict between Cambodia and Thailand at the Ta Muen Thom border.
The premier spoke on Friday (Mar. 14) during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Cambodian Oknha Association annual meeting at Premier Centre Sen Sok in Phnom Penh.
Samdech Thipadei challenged these groups, stating that if they truly believe in their rhetoric, they should prove their commitment. He offered to arm them, provide military equipment, and station them at the Cambodia-Thai border for six months to experience the hardships faced by the Cambodian army.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, “To those who claim that we are weak, that our army does not dare to confront Thai soldiers—especially some politicians abroad—I say this: back in 2008, when we engaged in conflict, I reviewed the records, and none of you stepped forward to offer support. Instead, some accused the government at the time of staging a conflict and acting foolishly.”
Samdech Thipadei continued, “Now, if you want to prove your patriotism, don't just make empty statements. If you truly want to come, I guarantee that you will not be arrested. Come in, and I will personally organise a platoon for you. You will be stationed at a military base, equipped with everything you need, and deployed to stand guard on the front lines for six months. Go and experience what our soldiers endure. Ask them—are they not patriotic? Why do they remain stationed there? It is not because they are afraid, but because they understand that armed conflict is not the solution. Instead, they choose technical negotiations to resolve border disputes rather than escalating tensions unnecessarily.”
However, the premier warned these foreign politicians that they should come themselves instead of pushing their supporters in Cambodia to act on their behalf.
While Prime Minister Hun Manet did not mention any names, his remarks came after Sam Rainsy and his supporters attempted to incite conflict at the Cambodia-Thai border by raising issues related to Koh Kood, Ta Muen Thom, and other areas.
Samdech Thipadei recalled that when the conflict erupted at Preah Vihear Temple in 2008, opposition groups remained in parliament as usual, continued to receive salaries from the National Assembly, and did nothing to encourage the Cambodian army. Meanwhile, citizens from all walks of life donated their own money to support and boost the morale of the troops defending the nation’s territory. These opposition groups not only failed to contribute but also spread distrust among Cambodians, dismissing the Cambodia-Thai conflict as a "staged war."
Samdech Thipadei underlined that border disputes should not be resolved through armed conflict, which would result in losses for both sides. Instead, he stressed that peaceful and technical negotiations—like those undertaken by the Royal Government in the past—are the most effective means to ensure lasting peace.
Samdech Thipadei stated, "Securing the border is not about amassing troops or fortifying trenches, but about fostering development for the people living in border areas, strengthening the economy, and opening up economic trade routes along the border."
=FRESH NEWS
