French embassy extends travel warning as Thai airstrikes intensify
The French embassy in Cambodia has warned against all but essential travel in the orange zone, which includes Battambang town. Embassy
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The French embassy in Cambodia has updated its travel advisory for Cambodia, adding a narrow “orange band” where travel should be limited, to the existing “red” warning against travel to all locations within 50 kilometres of the Thai border.
“Do not travel within 50km of the border” remains the standard warning issued by most Western governments, including the US, UK, Australia and South Aftrica.
On December 24, the French embassy noted that ground fighting is taking place between armed forces all along the border, but warned of sporadic airstrikes in a wider area.
“Consequently, travel is dangerous and strongly discouraged within a 50 km radius of the border (red zone). Travel is also discouraged, except for essential reasons, within an additional 30 km south of this red zone, between the provinces of Banteay Meanchey to the west and Preah Vihear to the east, and within an additional 40 km east of this red zone in Battambang province,” it said.
The embassy also designated Battambang town as an orange zone, with French residents urged to limit their travel.
“All tourist visits are prohibited in these regions, which are in red and orange zones. It is recommended to follow the information and instructions of local authorities very closely,” said the embassy.
Thai airstrikes have been reported almost every day since December 7.
Yesterday, the Thai air force debuted the South Korean-made T-50TH Golden Eagle jet trainer, bombing several sites. At least five bombs were dropped in Battambang’s Banan district, near historic site of Phnom Sampov, warned the Ministry of National Defence.
Cambodia authorities and ministers condemned ongoing attacks on civilian areas.
“We appeal to the international community to strongly condemn the violations against civilians and Cambodia’s sovereignty, and demand that the Thai side take full responsibility for this flagrant violation,” said a December 24 letter of condemnation from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
“Furthermore, the Thai side must immediately cease all hostilities and return to respecting the Joint Statement, the Peace Agreement, and all international obligations, for the cause of peace, stability and prosperity for both nations, as well as for the whole region,” it added.
-The Phnom Penh Post-
