PARIS: During his first official state visit to France, Prime Minister Hun Manet was greeted by over 1,000 Cambodians who live in the European Union. During his speech to the crowd, he warned his critics not to disrespect the Cambodian people by insinuating they had been paid to show up and show support.

During the meeting on January 14, the PM said that Khmer people are patriotic and never abandon each other. He said that Cambodians everywhere are united, loving, understanding and sympathetic.

"Please do not underestimate the Cambodian people. The common spirit of the Khmer nation shows blood is thicker than water. They are willing to come together anywhere to show the spirit of love and understanding, especially the pain from their country," he said.

Prime Minister Hun Manet is leading a Cambodian delegation to France during an official visit from January 13-19. When he arrived in France, many Cambodians greeted him at the hotel where he was staying and attended a get-together with the PM.

During his visit, he will attend the World Economic Forum from January 16-17 in Switzerland, while returning to France from January 18-19.