Cambodian Culture Ministry Firmly Rejects Thai Minister’s Claim over Ta Krabey and Ta Mone Temples

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(Phnom Penh): The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts of the Kingdom of Cambodia firmly rejected the recent statements made on 6 February 2026 by Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Thailand. The ministry categorically denied the claim that Ta Krabey Temple (referred to by Thailand as Ta Kwai) and the Ta Mone Temple Complex fall under Thai sovereignty, according to a press statement seen by Fresh News on Sunday (Feb. 8).

The ministry reaffirmed that these historical sites are located entirely within the sovereign territory of the Kingdom of Cambodia. This is clearly established by the Franco–Siamese Treaties of 1904 and 1907 and their annexed maps, the same legal foundations upheld by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in its 1962 Judgment concerning the Temple of Preah Vihear.

Claims based on unilateral registrations, domestic administrative acts from 1935, or non-recognized maps hold no legal validity under international law and cannot override binding bilateral treaties. Furthermore, any “restoration” work conducted without the consent of the territorial state constitutes a violation of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU 2000) on Land Border Demarcation and undermines the spirit of ASEAN cooperation.

The ministry emphasizes that the occupation or control of cultural heritage through military presence or force is strictly prohibited under the UN Charter and the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.

Cambodia remains committed to a peaceful, rules-based resolution. In the interest of regional stability and historical truth, Cambodia calls upon Thailand to cease all unilateral activities at these sites. If a disagreement persists, Cambodia invites a transparent and legally binding settlement through the International Court of Justice, rather than through the use of force or inflammatory rhetoric.

The Kingdom of Cambodia remains steadfast in its duty to protect its cultural heritage and uphold the integrity of its national borders.
=FRESH NEWS