PHNOM PENH: Cambodian youth, government officials and foreign ambassadors gathered at Olympic Stadium last night to celebrate the inscription of the Koh Ker Temple complex on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Guests were treated to musical performances, fireworks and a speech from Prime Minister Hun Manet, who used the opportunity to remind Cambodians about the importance of maintaining peace so that Cambodia can continue to develop toward prosperity.

"To be protected forever under the umbrella of peace, the people of Cambodia at all levels must unite to prevent any activities that cause chaos or create war for the sake of our nation’s progress now and in the future,” he said.

The prime minister said that the newly recognized World Heritage site is a testament to the wisdom the Khmer ancestors passed on through their rich culture, civilization and art.

The Koh Ker temple complex was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List at the 45th meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Saudi Arabia on September 17. This is the fourth Cambodian site to be included on the World Heritage List after Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear and Sambor Prei Kuk temples.