(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that while he once learned about Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s role in peace and international negotiations through books, he now finds himself leading such negotiations on behalf of Cambodia.

Speaking at a gathering with Cambodia’s SMEs on Saturday (Jun. 27), the premier reflected on the responsibilities of national leadership during periods of regional tension.

“I used to read books about Samdech Techo’s peace negotiations, negotiations regarding the King and international negotiations. Now I am the one taking part in those negotiations,” he said.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said Cambodia faces difficult choices in responding to armed conflict and regional security challenges.

He noted that although today’s situation differs from the era of B-52 bombers, modern warfare remains highly destructive, citing the use of F-16 fighter jets and reports that around 700,000 people had been displaced within a week by armed conflict.

On the occasion, the prime minister also warned that conflict disrupts education, weakens tourism and erodes investor confidence.

“When investors see that Cambodia is facing conflict, we have to decide which path to take, whether to pursue negotiations and resolve issues through legal mechanisms or resort to the use of force. These are decisions that must be made, and there is no textbook that teaches you how to make them,” he said.

The prime minister underlined that Cambodia’s leadership must carefully weigh every option while pursuing solutions that protect the country’s security, stability and long-term development.
=FRESH NEWS