(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen stated that those who once mocked the slogan “Thanks Peace” now understand its real significance. He noted that many of the past critics, most of whom live abroad, have “opened their eyes” following recent armed clashes near the border.

Samdech Techo spoke on Monday (Nov. 17) during the 33rd National Congress of Buddhist Monks at the National Institute of Education.

“People used to treat the phrase ‘Thanks Peace’ as a joke. But after the outbreak of armed clashes, they’ve realized that peace is not something simple. One should not wait until peace is lost to shout for it,” Samdech Techo underscored.

He continued by calling on all Cambodians to unite to protect and safeguarding peace so that it remains strong and lasting. He emphasised that although the border issue affects only a small area and a short period of time, it still has a significant impact on the country as a whole.

“If we look at the area of conflict, it is very small compared to the land under peace. The timeframe is also very short compared to the 24 hours of the day. A minor disruption in a small area already causes widespread concern, so imagine if peace was lost nationwide,” Samdach Techo continued.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also recalled extremist individuals attempting to attack the Royal Government, and reminded the public to think clearly about Cambodia’s priorities: restoring peace, rebuilding good neighbourly relations, and supporting ongoing mechanisms such as the Cambodia–Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), which has already met, reviewed, and conducted joint border pillar measurements.

He noted that the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding between Cambodia and Thailand only allowed for the identification of old border pillars, without determining the exact boundary line. However, the current stage of the JBC reflects mutual recognition and progress by both sides. Therefore, he urged the public to allow the technical team to carry out their work professionally and not to politicize the matter or demand statements from the president of the Senate.

Samdech Techo concluded that he retains the right to clarify the government’s position on border issues with neighbouring countries.
=FRESH NEWS