PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (EAC News) — Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate and President of the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), today issued a resolute message commemorating the 47th anniversary of 7 January Victory Day, a pivotal moment marking the overthrow of the Pol Pot genocidal regime. The message underscored Cambodia's journey from liberation to sustained development while addressing ongoing regional challenges, particularly renewed tensions with Thailand.

In a statement released on January 7, 2026, Hun Sen hailed the 1979 victory as the genesis of a "new era for Cambodia: Independence, Freedom, Democracy, and Social Progress." He called for eternal remembrance of the Pol Pot regime's atrocities, which resulted in the deaths of millions during its nearly four-year brutal reign, from April 17, 1975, until January 7, 1979.

"We can never forget the great tragedy inflicted upon our people by the Pol Pot genocidal clique," Techo Hun Sen stated, recalling how Cambodians were deprived of rights, subjected to forced labor, torture, and executions, pushing the nation "to the brink of extinction." He credited the Kampuchean United Front for National Salvation, established December 2, 1978, and the "immense assistance and support of the Vietnamese volunteer troops" for liberating the nation.

Techo Hun Sen emphasized Cambodia's post-1979 achievements, including ending a protracted war, establishing deep-rooted democracy, and fostering rapid economic growth that has improved living standards. He attributed this progress to the CPP's leadership, the solidarity of the people, and international support.

Looking back at 2025, Techo Hun Sen noted that Cambodia achieved "numerous achievements across all sectors" through the implementation of the Royal Government's Political Platform and Pentagonal Strategy Phase I, led by Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet. He affirmed that 2026, the third year of the current government, would see continued efforts to implement its agenda and protect national and territorial integrity.

The message also detailed complex international developments, global economic uncertainty, and the "weakening of the rules-based international order" impacting Cambodia's development trajectory. Techo Hun Sen highlighted what he described as "Thailand’s brutal aggression" against Cambodia’s territorial integrity along the border. He alleged that the Thai military initiated attacks on Cambodian troops and civilians, violating Cambodian sovereignty, international humanitarian law, and disrespecting the spirit of the ASEAN Community.

In response, Cambodia’s armed forces exercised their right to self-defense, with the Royal Government maintaining a stance of "restraint, goodwill, and sincerity" while seeking peaceful resolution. Techo Hun Sen noted that despite a ceasefire agreed on July 28, 2025, and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of October 26, 2025, Thailand allegedly expanded its attacks.

He reported a new, immediate on-site ceasefire agreement reached on December 27, 2025, during the 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) between the two nations. This agreement, effective from noon on December 27, 2025, aims to "freeze the front lines" and restore trust, normalcy, and lasting peace along the border.

Techo Hun Sen reiterated Cambodia's commitment to ending suffering and achieving sustainable peace, asserting that the nation "will not make any concession on its sovereignty or dignity." He expressed gratitude to friendly countries and the international community, including the United States, the People's Republic of China, and ASEAN member states, with special mention of Malaysia as the ASEAN Chair, for their assistance in achieving the peaceful resolution.

Concluding his message, Hun Sen appealed to all compatriots to uphold patriotism, self-reliance, and national solidarity under the motto: "Nation, Religion, King." He expressed confidence that with unity, Cambodia would overcome any obstacle, urging citizens to remember the nation's history, cultural heritage, and sovereignty.