Phnom Penh, July 16, 2024 — Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the ECCC Resource Centre, Prime Minister Hun Manet underscored the critical importance of preserving Cambodia's culture and history, particularly in light of its tumultuous past.

Prime Minister Hun Manet reflected on Cambodia's dark history, notably the devastating period under the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979, which resulted in immense suffering and loss of life across the country. He emphasized that such history must not be forgotten but rather preserved meticulously for future generations.

"Culture and history are difficult because they are intertwined with our national identity. The journey from being a prosperous city to ground zero underscores the resilience and challenges we have faced," Prime Minister Hun Manet remarked.

Expressing concerns about younger generations potentially forgetting or misunderstanding this painful history, the Prime Minister stressed the necessity of clearly documenting and disseminating Cambodia's history both domestically and internationally.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Hun Manet cautioned against any glorification of extremism or violence in the portrayal of history, emphasizing that a balanced narrative is crucial.

"History serves not only to highlight the mistakes but also to guide us away from repeating them" he added.

The Prime Minister's remarks come at a pivotal moment as Cambodia continues to grapple with preserving its cultural heritage amidst rapid development and modernization.