Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has firmly rejected repeated allegations by Thai military authorities that Cambodia uses ancient temples for military purposes. The ministry said the temples were cultural heritage requiring protection and conservation, rather than military bases or political instruments.
The ministry stressed Cambodia’s commitment to protecting cultural heritage in accordance with the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention, and described the conservation of ancient temples as an important duty to future generations.
Cambodia also protested the presence of Thai military forces and unilateral activities at Ta Moan Thom, Ta Krabei and Khnar temples and other archaeological sites along the Cambodia–Thailand border. It said these activities had taken place without Cambodia’s permission and raised concerns about sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Cambodia also cited damage to Preah Vihear Temple and other cultural heritage sites during the armed clashes in July and December 2025, calling for heritage protection and accountability for the damage.
The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts urged Thai authorities to stop allegations that Cambodia considers unfounded and to cease unilateral activities at Cambodia’s heritage sites. It called for outstanding border issues to be resolved peacefully through bilateral mechanisms, particularly the Cambodia–Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC).
Cambodia also demanded the return of antiquities allegedly removed from Khnar Temple and taken to Thailand.
Cambodia reiterated that ancient temples must be protected and conserved as valuable cultural heritage, rather than used as political instruments or sites of military confrontation. It urged all parties to respect international law and fulfil their obligations to protect cultural heritage. By: PENH Sopheak
