PHNOM PENH: Minister Attached to the Prime Minister, Jean-François Tain, made a public statement saying that if media analysts really want to help the nation’s potential on the international stage, they should think before they speak, citing the proverb, “the brain is bigger than the tongue.”

Speaking at a press conference upon the PM’s return on Tuesday night, Jean-François Tain referred to some analysts that said the Prime Minister’s visit to Vietnam was proof that Cambodia is just a satellite of Vietnam and China, noting that the PM had already visited China twice during his short time in office. Some say Vietnam being the first ASEAN country for the new PM to officially visit is to show sympathy for the communist country and establish an even closer bond with China.

Mr. Tain said that such remarks undermine national prestige and that people should be more thoughtful about their comments.

"If we want to see Cambodia take advantage of international relations between neighboring countries in the region and on the international stage, everyone, both educated and ordinary Cambodians, should adhere to this principle”.

He added that thinking of the nation as a whole is important because some analysis and statements can seriously affect the relationship and the interests of the nation.

Prime Minister Hun Manet ended his two-day visit to Vietnam on December 12, having met with many Vietnamese leaders and strengthening relations between the two countries.