(Siem Reap): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet asserted that the escalating tensions between Cambodia and Thailand were triggered by Thailand, particularly through the rise of Thai nationalist movements.

The premier spoke on Monday (Jun. 23) at the closing of the Central Committee Meeting of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) in Siem Reap province.

“Ultimately, this wave of nationalism was exploited as a tool for internal political gain in Thailand and subsequently projected onto Cambodia,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei noted that in the past, Thai politicians had begun inciting the public against Cambodian nationals. “The Cambodian Royal Government did not initiate this conflict. Cambodia had kept channels open for dialogue. Initially, it was just Thai nationalists, the yellow shirts and others, like Sondhi Limthongkul who shouted provocations. But back then, this did not reflect the Thai government’s stance, and Cambodia was still willing to negotiate. Our intention was to maintain peace and stability. Unfortunately, the provocations persisted.

Samdech Thipadei further criticized recent comments by commander of Thailand’s 2nd Army Region who reportedly said, “If you want the land, let’s fight.” Samdech Thipadei questioned, “How can you negotiate bilaterally with statements like that?”

Thai nationalist sentiment has spilled over into Cambodia. Another concern raised was Thailand’s repeated threats over several months such as to cut off electricity and internet access under the pretext of limiting online activity at the border, while simultaneously portraying Cambodia in a negative light. Yet look at Thailand now, plagued with online games and crime.

Thai politicians of deliberately smearing Cambodia’s reputation, stirring anger among Cambodian citizens. They even went as far as to secretly fire at Cambodian troops at the Emerald Triangle area and then accused Cambodia of starting the attack.

“These actions clearly provoke nationalist sentiment in Cambodia. Can any nation accept being looked down on and constantly blamed without reacting?” Samdech Thipadei asked, emphasising that Cambodia had exercised considerable restraint over several months.

The ongoing Cambodia–Thailand border dispute has heightened tensions along the shared frontier. Several checkpoints have seen increased enforcement. In addition to tightening border controls, Cambodia has cut off electricity and internet connections from Thailand and banned the import of Thai vegetables and fruits. More recently, the Kingdom suspended all fuel and gas imports from Thailand as a further countermeasure.

The prime minister concluded, “Let it be clear. Cambodia did not incite nationalist sentiment to gain domestic political advantage. It was foreign politicians who used Cambodia as a scapegoat to further their own internal political agendas. That is what compelled our nation to respond.”
=FRESH NEWS