In a press release informing the public, Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts lodged a firm protest with Thailand’s Culture Ministry concerning activities carried out by Thai authorities at the Ta Moan and Ta Krabei temple sites.
The ministry reiterated that both temple sites lie wholly within Cambodia’s sovereign territory. It said this was clearly established by the 1904 and 1907 Franco-Siamese treaties and officially recognised maps that remained valid under international law.
The ministry expressed deep concern over reports of severe damage and near-total destruction of Ta Krabei, a sacred site and important historic heritage preserved over centuries, of cultural value and central to the spirit of the Khmer people.
Cambodia said it could not accept any use of force against cultural and archaeological sites, or unilateral restoration, conservation, registration or construction without Cambodian agreement, or any activity affecting or destroying the sites’ legal, historical and cultural status.
The ministry called on Thailand to stop all activities at Ta Moan and Ta Krabei immediately, respect Cambodian sovereignty and resolve all related issues peacefully and in accordance with international law.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and preserving Cambodia’s cultural heritage and promoting cooperation based on mutual respect, legality and principles supported by international organisations. By: Pai Sokhim.
