PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Manet has expressed deep regret over the damage done to Preah Vihear Temple by Thai shelling during the 2025 conflicts, noting that the damage occurred despite Cambodia’s persistent efforts to seek a peaceful resolution.
In a message commemorating the 18th anniversary of the temple’s July 7, 2008, inscription on the Unesco World Heritage List, Manet reiterated that his government had worked hard to resolve issues with the Thai side through international legal frameworks and existing bilateral mechanisms. However, the armed confrontations last year caused significant damage to several cultural heritage sites, most notably Preah Vihear.
“On this occasion, I wish to express my deepest sorrow over the catastrophic damage to our most revered cultural heritage in July and December 2025. This includes severe damage to 562 locations within Preah Vihear Temple and the wiping out of nearly 20 years of conservation efforts,” he said.
“This is a monumental loss, not only for Cambodia but for the heritage of all humanity. In the face of this destruction, the Royal Government has implemented several urgent measures. This includes working closely with Unesco, the International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Site of Preah Vihear (ICC-Preah Vihear), and all national and international partners to evaluate the damage and implement conservation measures.
"We have also requested the deployment of international experts to inspect and assess the damage,” he added.
He noted that authorities are currently clearing unexploded ordnance (UXO) and cluster bomb remnants, reinforcing temple structures to prevent further collapse, and collecting and preserving the broken stone carvings that were scattered across the temple grounds.
The prime minister added that the government continues to prioritise the conservation and restoration of the temple with a clear objective: to transform this pain into a further symbol of solidarity and strength for the Khmer people.
“The entire nation and the people of Cambodia express their deepest gratitude for the heroic bravery of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and all others who sacrificed their lives and blood to stand firm in defence of our border,” Manet said.
“I also highly commend and value the international experts, officials and skilled workers of the National Authority for Preah Vihear who have worked tirelessly to respond in a timely manner to save Preah Vihear Temple, even while facing threats to their safety,” he added.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting Cambodia’s territorial integrity and ensuring that the Preah Vihear World Heritage site and other temples along the border are preserved for future generations.
“May the spirit of Preah Vihear Temple remain forever in the hearts of every Khmer citizen, and let us transform this pain into a dedicated effort for self-development to build a strong and resilient national society,” he said. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
