Culture ministry rails against Thai activities at Tamone, Ta Krabei temples

Thai monks and citizens perform a ceremony at Ta Krabei temple in January, just a month after heavy shelling by the Thai military caused extensive damage to the temple. FB

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The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has lodged a strong protest with the Thai Ministry of Culture regarding various activities carried out by Thai authorities in the areas of Tamone and Ta Krabei temples.

In a February 3 press release, the ministry reiterated that the locations of both temples fall entirely within Cambodia’s sovereignty, as clearly defined by the Franco-Siamese Treaties of 1904 and 1907, as well as maps that are officially recognised and remain valid under international law.

The ministry expressed grave concern regarding reports of severe damage and the near total destruction of Ta Krabei temple, a sacred site with significant historical heritage that has been preserved for centuries. They noted that it holds immense cultural value and represents the soul of the Khmer people.

“Cambodia cannot accept any use of force against cultural and archaeological zones, or any unilateral restoration, conservation, registration or construction activities carried out without the consent of the Cambodian side,” it said.

Cambodia also rejects any actions that affect or destroy the legal, historical and cultural status of these areas, it added.

The ministry called on the Thai side to immediately cease all activities at the Tamone and Ta Krabei temple areas, to respect Cambodia’s sovereignty and to resolve all related issues peacefully, in accordance with international law.

“The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts maintains its commitment to protecting and preserving Cambodia’s cultural heritage, as well as to cooperation based on mutual respect, legality and principles supported by international organisations,” it said.

-Phnom Penh Post-
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