(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed pride and gratitude, both personally and on behalf of the Royal Government, toward the venerable monks, Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk. The premier also extended appreciation to all Cambodian citizens who generously contributed financial support, supplies, and food to uplift the morale of Cambodia’s forces regardless to political or religious affiliations, as one united Khmer nation.

The premier stated that such acts exemplify the strong spirit of national defence upheld by the Cambodian people in supporting the Royal Government and frontline forces in safeguarding the Kingdom’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Samdech Thipadei remarked that the Solidarity March, held in support of the Royal Government and national forces, clearly demonstrated the patriotic spirit and deep love for the homeland among Cambodians, while also reinforcing the morale of those defending the nation’s sovereignty and overarching national interests.

The prime minister praised the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) for initiating and organising this significant event at such a crucial time. The choice of the Independence Monument as the gathering point was symbolic, as it represents Khmer independence and sovereignty. In this context, the prime minister, on behalf of the Royal Government, paid tribute to the noble and invaluable royal legacy of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, who valiantly secured Cambodia’s full independence on 9 November 1953 and defended its territorial integrity through the successful International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on the Preah Vihear Temple on 15 June 1962.

He also expressed his gratitude to former Cambodian prime minister, particularly under the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, for their sacrifices, dedication, and unwavering sense of responsibility in leading the nation with the national interest as their highest priority. Their efforts culminated in the achievement of full peace through the Win-Win Policy, which laid a crucial foundation for Cambodia’s socio-economic development to date.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed that the Royal Government of the seventh legislative mandate remains resolutely committed to continuing this legacy. The government will uphold the heroic example set by previous generations by preserving sovereignty, territorial integrity, peace, and stability; while accelerating development across all sectors for the benefit of the nation and its people.

Concerning the border issue with Thailand, the prime minister reassured the public of the government’s firm stance favouring a peaceful resolution through diplomacy, cooperation, and mutual benefit. Cambodia continues to engage with the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) to demarcate the remaining border sections, excluding four key areas: Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, Ta Krabei Temple, and the Emerald Triangle. For these unresolved areas, Cambodia formally submitted a request to the International Court of Justice on 16 June 2025, seeking a legal resolution.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasised that the Solidarity March on 18 June 2025 held profound national significance and provided critical moral support to the Royal Government and, in particular, the frontline forces who are steadfastly fulfilling their mission to defend Cambodia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
=FRESH NEWS