The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts announced preparations to sue Thailand, which it said had invaded Cambodia, using artillery shelling and dropping bombs on the World Heritage-listed Preah Vihear Temple, causing damage to a precious historical and cultural heritage of the Cambodian people.
In a statement dated 24 July, Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture condemned what it described as Thailand’s brazen aggression, which had affected and damaged areas around Preah Vihear Temple and its structures. The ministry described the damage as a cultural and moral tragedy threatening both World Heritage and the Cambodian people’s national identity.
The statement said: “The Ministry of Culture will conduct a detailed assessment and compile relevant documentation, including damage records, in accordance with international procedures, to seek justice and compensation under applicable international law. It will also strengthen cooperation with relevant authorities and international organizations to implement all protective measures provided for in the Second Protocol to the Hague Convention.”
The Ministry of Culture said Thailand’s aggression not only endangered the temple’s structures, a shared heritage of humanity, but also reflected Thailand’s failure to respect its obligations under international law. The ministry declared its unwavering commitment to protecting and conserving cultural heritage, even while facing armed aggression from Thailand.
By: ង៉ែត ពិសាន្ត
