Phnom Penh: In a heartfelt address, Prime Minister Hun Manet, of Cambodia, emphasized the crucial role of peace in restoring the connection with the souls of Khmer ancestors. Speaking at a ceremony on August 22, 2024, where Cambodian artifacts were formally returned to the nation, he reflected on the historical impacts of war and the significance of cultural heritage.

"Without complete peace, Cambodia would not have the opportunity to honor the memories of its ancestors who were lost to the ravages of war," Prime Minister Manet stated. He highlighted that the ongoing civil unrest had, in the past, paved the way for the theft of the nation’s cultural heritage, allowing invaluable artifacts to be sold abroad. The Prime Minister viewed the return of these Khmer artifacts as a poignant gathering of ancestral souls, allowing their legacy to be passed down to future generations.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Hun Manet  also addressed the spiritual dimension of peace. "It's not just the everyday people who seek peace; divine families as well wish to reunite with the spirits of their ancestors. Without maintaining peace, we cannot fully reclaim the rich history and heritage that belongs to Cambodia," he asserted.

The return of Cambodian artifacts is a source of immense pride and joy for the nation, as noted by the Prime Minister. He expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Cambodian people, celebrating this milestone as a restoration of national identity and cultural pride under the auspices of peace. Furthermore, he revealed that the Cambodian Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts is actively working to facilitate the return of 76 additional stolen antiquities from foreign countries.

To date, Cambodia has successfully repatriated more than a thousand artifacts from 15 countries, including France, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Thailand. These efforts to reclaim cultural treasures are vital for reconnecting with Cambodia’s heritage and honoring the souls of its ancestors.

Prime Minister Hun Manet’s message underscores the fundamental importance of peace in Cambodia's journey towards healing and unity, resonating with the sentiments of a nation determined to preserve and honor its rich cultural legacy.