(Takeo): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed the country’s commitment to diplomacy as the primary path to resolving the ongoing border dispute with Thailand, speaking on Saturday (Apr. 11) during a groundbreaking for the construction of the section II of the Funan Techo Canal in Takeo province.

“Even with only a 1 per cent chance, we must continue diplomatic efforts to avoid bloodshed and protect our people and their property,” he said.

The prime minister highlighted that Cambodia is open to all peaceful avenues, including bilateral talks, regional mechanisms such as ASEAN, and international frameworks like the United Nations and international courts.

While acknowledging that diplomacy takes time, the premier called for patience, emphasising that peaceful resolution is essential to safeguarding national sovereignty and preventing further violence.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underscored the importance of this approach to prevent further violence, property destruction, and civilian casualties. He warned that renewed conflict could worsen existing suffering, noting that past clashes have already caused casualties and damaged homes and schools. Escalation, he cautioned, could also threaten the 3,000 houses recently built for displaced families.

At the same time, Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed that Cambodia’s priority remains clear: to exhaust all diplomatic and legal means to maintain peace, protect citizens, and avoid a cycle of retaliation.
=FRESH NEWS