Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet elaborated on the public’s varying perspectives regarding the Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam Development Triangle Area (CLV-DTA). During a meeting with Buddhist priests, he outlined the three prevailing opinions that have emerged in response to the initiative. The dialogue occurred at the National Institute of Education on Thursday, August 15.
Prime Minister Hun Manet stated, “There are distinct voices from the populace when it comes to the CLV-DTA. Some indicate that we are indifferent to the concerns raised, but the truth is, the Royal Government hears all—supporters and those who stand in opposition. We are presented with a crucial decision on whose advice to act upon. There are those who fear the implications of withdrawal and, on the other end, advocates who see value in development efforts. However, the third and most substantial group maintains a stance of silent observation.”
He continued to emphasize the predominance of this third group. Their demands are clear and hinge on four assurances: the provinces involved in the initiative will not concede territory, sovereignty will remain unchallenged, development projects will advance in these regions, and the unity of the Cambodian people will be preserved to avert social unrest.
The Cambodian Prime Minister further stressed the importance of unity for the advancement of the project, drawing from Cambodia’s experience with ASEAN since 1999. Within this regional framework, member countries have demonstrated cooperation, leading not to the dissolution of borders, but to a collective reinforcement.
Addressing the concerns raised by the third group, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reiterated his dedication to preserving the sovereignty of the northeastern provinces and fostering progress for Cambodia’s future generations. He expressed the determination to counter destabilizing efforts, drawing parallels to unrest in Bangladesh. Such efforts have included recent attempts to tarnish the reputation of the CLV-DTA by claiming that the project equates to relinquishing Cambodian territory.
In light of these claims, the Prime Minister affirmed the need for national solidarity and constructive dialogue regarding the CLV-DTA. He also dispelled notions of land concession, referencing remarks from Samdech Techo Hun Sen, the initiator of the DTA, affirming that no land from Stung Treng, Kratie, Mondulkiri, and Ratanakkiri provinces has been ceded. He clarified that the collaboration across the three countries represents a mutual developmental endeavor, with each nation investing in its respective territories.
Source: Fresh News
