(Phnom Penh): The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts of the Kingdom of Cambodia issued a statement on Thursday (Jan. 22) expressing a strong protest against all actions undertaken by the Thai military at Ta Krabei Temple.

The ministry reiterated its position in line with the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation dated 2 January 2026 concerning the protest against Thailand's violations. The ministry reiterated its strong protest against all actions undertaken by Thailand at Ta Krabei Temple, including direct actions affecting the temple structure itself as well as the construction of infrastructure in the vicinity of the temple.

The statement underscored that Ta Krabei Temple, which has recently suffered near-total destruction as a result of shelling by the Thai military, is an archaeological site that has long been strictly preserved and protected by Cambodia's cultural institutions. The temple is also a sacred site of worship, revered in accordance with the beliefs, traditions, and customs of the Cambodian people since time immemorial.

In the statement, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts categorically opposed the use of armed force by the Thai military to invade and occupy Ta Krabei Temple, as well as any projects or activities that alter the status of the area. The ministry considered such acts of aggression to constitute a serious violation of the fundamental and peremptory principles of international law, which prohibit the acquisition or occupation of territory by the use of force.

The ministry called upon the Thai side to immediately cease all destructive actions and projects in and around Ta Krabei Temple, which is located within the sovereign territory of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and to turn toward the peaceful resolution of border issues in full accordance with the Franco-Siamese Treaties of 1904 and 1907.
=FRESH NEWS