(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn highlighted the plight of over 20,000 Cambodian civilians affected by the border conflict during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Interface with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) Representatives in Manila, the Philippines.

During the meeting, the minister underscored the difficult humanitarian and human rights situation facing Camboain civilians who have become victims of the border conflict, according to a press release on the outcomes of the meeting seen by Fresh News on Wednesday (Jul. 22).

He informed that more than 20,000 civilians continue to reside in temporary shelters, with many children unable to attend school and the elderly and other vulnerable persons lacking adequate access to essential care despite the government’s efforts to ease their hardship.

In this regard, Cambodian foreign minister called on ASEAN colleagues to support the calls for their return to their homes and normal livelihoods, without obstruction and in safety and dignity.

It should be noted that the Royal Government of Cambodia has formally lodged strong protests against Thailand's continued violations of Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to resolving all boundary disputes with Thailand, as with all its neighbours, exclusively through peaceful means, in accordance with international law and existing bilateral agreements, while firmly upholding its principled position that international borderlines must not be altered by force.
=FRESH NEWS