(Phnom Penh): The Government of India has called on Cambodia and Thailand to exercise restraint and take immediate steps to halt hostilities following reports of damage to conservation facilities at the Preah Vihear Temple amid ongoing border clashes, according to a statement by Spokesperson of India’s Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal.

“We have seen reports regarding damage to conservation facilities at Preah Vihear during the ongoing Thai-Cambodia border clashes," the statement said. "Any damage to conservation facilities is unfortunate and is a matter of concern.”

“The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Preah Vihear temple is a shared cultural heritage of humanity. India has been closely involved in its preservation. We sincerely hope that all measures will be taken to fully safeguard the site and related conservation facilities,” it added.

“We once again reiterate our appeal to both sides to exercise restraint and to take measures for cessation of hostilities and prevention of further escalation. We urge them to return to the path of dialogue and peace.”
=FRESH NEWS