STUNG TRENG: The Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and Commander-in-Chief of the Army, Lt. Gen. Hun Manet, has stated that the army is born from the people, and the people provide supplies and support to the army. He said that this connection is the reason why the peace of the people must be protected, in defense of the nation and to ensure the long-term peace of the country.

Speaking at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Headquarters of Brigade No. 128, 1st Military Zone donated by the Prime Minister and His Wife, in Stung Treng Province on Thursday, Lt. Gen. Hun Manet stated that the two main pillars of the Royal Government's defense policy are peace and long-term stability and building opportunities for national development.

He said that the spirit, will and sacrifice of the army is not only present in battle, but the army also has a duty to partake in all situations of danger and when the nation and people are in need, such as during national disasters, as well as in the clearance of mines and unexploded ordnances.

"Of course, the army comes from the people and does everything for the well-being of the people, and the people are the source of both the military and supplies in the name of the backline," he said. "All of this is a testament to joint efforts based on the common cause of building a defense base to ensure lasting peace and building opportunities for national development."

He added that despite the challenges and effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic over the past two years, Cambodia's peace, political stability and economic growth have been maintained to favorable standards, and there is new momentum for building and developing the capacity of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces.

He praised the 1st Military Zone for their efforts in defending Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity along the geographical boundaries they are responsible for, and also for cooperating with local authorities and institutions in these efforts, being involved at all levels in maintaining security, public order and safety to achieve better results.