(Oddar Meanchey): Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen urged local residents in the frontline areas of Choam Khsant to dig trenches and take self-protective measures amid escalating tensions between Cambodian and Thai armed forces.
Samdech Techo spoke on Thursday (Jun. 26) during a meeting with commanders from Military Regions 2 and 3 in Oddar Meanchey Province, followed by a separate session with 248 commune and district council members from across the province.
Taking this occasion, Samdech Techo thanked the commune, district, and provincial council members for their participation in the recent election. He emphasised that all council members were democratically elected and reminded them that they must work closely with citizens to earn their continued trust and votes in future elections. He underscored that public officials are servants of the people and encouraged council members to remain actively engaged with their constituents in order to serve them effectively.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen praised the efforts of sub-national authorities for their dedication to the people. Addressing the ongoing tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border, he noted that political instability in neighbouring Thailand has led to increasing friction with Cambodia. Nevertheless, he stated that what initially appeared to be a crisis is now becoming routine.
He encouraged council members to mobilise the public toward agricultural production, turning the crisis into an opportunity. He advocated for increased local food production to support domestic consumption, including for the armed forces stationed at the border. He cautioned that, in his view, a prolonged military deployment may be required, and thus, sustaining food supplies at the local level is essential.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen confirmed that Cambodia is currently engaged in a border dispute with Thailand, and warned that without a change in leadership in Bangkok, the situation could escalate into a long-term conflict, unlike the short-lived flare-ups of 2011. He called on local communities to fortify their areas, not only for protection but also to maintain productivity, especially with the onset of the rainy season.
Regarding national security, Samdech Techo underscored the continued importance of the “Safe Commune” policy, which he said must be fully enforced. He highlighted that commune-level leaders are pivotal in maintaining social order and in addressing key issues such as drug abuse and illegal gambling. He called for firm action against drug-related offences, describing the issue as both a public and deeply personal concern affecting every household.
Turning to Thailand’s unilateral border closures, Samdech Techo criticised the Thai Government’s approach, noting that closures are often implemented without coordination and reversed only when economic interests are threatened, such as disruptions to fruit exports. He added that Thailand's recent behaviour reflects a form of self-isolation, as it is also experiencing challenges along its borders with Myanmar, Laos, and Malaysia.
As for Cambodia, Samdech reaffirmed the kingdom’s commitment to maintaining borders defined by peace, friendship, cooperation, and development with all neighbouring nations.
=FRESH NEWS
