Phnom Penh, August 2024: Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that national unity and peace are the essential pillars of national defense, warning that without them, Cambodia risks losing its territory, sovereignty, and even lives.

During a gathering with approximately 1,000 Achars and Acharinis (laymen and laywomen) in Phnom Penh, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of collective efforts to strengthen national unity and solidarity. His remarks came in response to concerns regarding the potential loss of Cambodian territory and sovereignty in the northeastern provinces of Stung Treng, Rattanakiri, Mondulkiri, and Kratie within the framework of Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Area (CLV-DTA) cooperation.

Prime Minister Hun Manet reassured the public that bolstering the livelihoods and development of the people in these provinces is a key strategy in safeguarding Cambodia’s sovereignty. He urged the public not to endanger the nation due to unfounded concerns, emphasizing the need to avoid actions that could threaten national security and unity.

Reflecting on historical events, the Premier noted that internal conflicts and divisions were the primary reasons for Cambodia’s past territorial losses. He stressed that preserving Cambodia’s territory and sovereignty requires collective unity rather than internal quarrels.

“It is our duty to unite to defend the territory and sovereignty of Cambodia. Quarrels cannot preserve Cambodian territory,” Prime Minister Hun Manet stated, highlighting the critical importance of national unity in ensuring the nation’s defense and stability.