PHNOM PENH: The Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and Commander of the Army, Lt. Gen. Hun Manet, has expressed his high appreciation for the efforts of the Army Artillery Command, which in the past has worked hard to fulfill its role and achieve good results.

He also praised the army for its achievements in managing force for regulatory intervention, artillery training according to the annual plan, and the assignment of military personnel to train at local units.

He advised all infantry to remain loyal and decisive in defending the nation, religion, King, Constitution and government. At the same time, he said they must continue to be ready to ensure the strict implementation of Royal Government orders, particularly from the Ministry of National Defense, and to protect peace, social order, and national stability.

"Insulting the King is illegal, immoral and irresponsible as a citizen," he said. "Therefore, as a force loyal to the nation, religion, King, and Army, we are committed to defending the King, the monarchy, the constitution, peace, and national unity, to ensure the protection of the nation's long-term sustainability and interests, and to protect against any illegal acts that incite the disintegration of national unity."

"Indeed, through the bitter history of Cambodia, it is clear that such disintegration has led to war, which is the common enemy of the entire Khmer nation," he further added.

Lt. Gen. Hun Manet made these remarks at the inauguration ceremony of the new headquarters of the Army Artillery Command in Kampong Chhnang province on Wednesday, 1 March 2023. He noted that the new headquarters is a precious gift from Prime Minister Hun Sen and First Lady Bun Rany Hun Sen, who are always paying attention to the well-being of soldiers.

He further thanked the leaders and civil servants of ministries, civil institutions and other donors who have contributed to the Royal Government by supporting the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces.

"This is an important contribution to the strengthening of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and also a testament to the close solidarity between the army and the people, as seen through the people's support of the duties of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces," said the Lt. Gen.

He added that the progress and development made by institutions and units throughout the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces can be attributed to the dedicated and innovative contributions of all leaders and soldiers in Cambodia, allowing for the forces to become stronger on all fronts.

"All of this is testament to the joint efforts made toward the common cause of building a defense base to ensure lasting peace, and building opportunities for national development," he said.