(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called on Cambodians to transform the pain caused by the territorial dispute with Thailand into national strength, stressing that hardship must not weaken the country but instead serve as a catalyst for unity and progress.

The premier spoke on Tuesday (Feb. 10) during a meeting with Grade A high school students at OCIC, Phnom Penh.

“United under a single Khmer national spirit, it is true that we feel pain and may suffer both physical and emotional wounds,” Samdech Thipadei said. “However, we must not allow this pain to defeat us. The more difficult and painful the situation becomes, the stronger we must be to move our nation forward, because no one else will strengthen Cambodia for us.”

The premier further emphasised that during this challenging period, national efforts must focus on strengthening capacity across society, particularly among students, whether they achieved Grade A results or not. Regardless of academic ranking, all students must continue to study diligently for the future of the nation. Cambodia’s strength depends on the strength of its people, he added.

In this regard, the prime minister noted that the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport continues to enhance teachers’ capacities and improve the quality of education across all sectors as part of long-term national development.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet acknowledged the emotional strain felt by officials across ministries and institutions, noting that such feelings are natural during times of conflict. While developments along the border may cause discouragement, he warned that this must not lead to stagnation. All ministries and institutions must remain active, coordinated, and committed to strengthening their respective capacities in service of the people.

Samdech Thipadei further called on local authorities to intensify efforts to serve the public, improve institutional performance, and reduce inefficiency, urging collective action to advance national development despite difficulties and fears.

He reaffirmed that the Royal Government’s position is to resolve border issues peacefully and in accordance with international law, the only principle capable of ensuring lasting and effective solutions. While acknowledging that such processes take time and involve challenges, he called for cooperation to resolve the issue permanently, prevent its recurrence, and restore peace by transforming former conflict zones into areas of development and cooperation with neighboring countries.

While acknowledging that such processes take time and involve challenges, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet called for cooperation to resolve the issue permanently, prevent its recurrence, and restore peace by transforming former conflict zones into areas of development and cooperation with neighboring countries.
=FRESH NEWS