With Cambodia in the process of filing a complaint to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning the Ta Krabei, Ta Moan Tauch and Ta Moan Thom temples, and Mum Bei area, the Ministry of National Defence on July 6 rejected “baseless and arrogant claims” made by certain Thai media, military personnel and civilians who asserted that Ta Krabei Temple lies within Thailand’s sovereignty.
While Thailand has often made their claim, the latest conflict came on July 5 when Cambodian people with Khmer scarfs stitched with small national flags visited the temple. They were interrupted by Thai citizens and soldiers, who banned them from taking photos with their scarves.
The ministry said the claims made by Thai side are a distortion and complete misrepresentation of reality, as the Thai side has relied on unilateral maps that hold no legal value under international law.
“Cambodia reaffirms that Ta Krabei Temple, located geographically on Dang Rek Mountain, in Monorom Senchey Village, Kok Khpos Commune, Banteay Ampil District, Oddar Meanchey Province, lies entirely within Cambodian territory and sovereignty. This position is based on legally recognised maps acknowledged by the international community,” said the statement.
The ministry urged Thailand to cooperate with Cambodia in bringing the cases before the ICJ to definitively determine ownership.
While Thai soldiers have prohibited Cambodian civilians from using Krama from and taking photos, Thai citizens have been seen wear clothing and accessories displaying the Thai flag openly.
“Cambodian citizens have every right to wear attire and use items bearing the Cambodian national flag when visiting Ta Krabei Temple, as doing so does not breach any mutual agreements.
“A Thai tourist reportedly reacted aggressively and attempted to use violence against a Cambodian tourist who was calmly and logically explaining that Ta Krabei Temple lies fully within Cambodian territory and simply questioned why Thai citizens could display their flag while Cambodians were being restricted,” added the ministry.
The defence ministry urged the Thai side to honour the current bilateral agreements in a strict and responsible manner and adhere to these agreed-upon terms in a consistent and disciplined way to avoid creating tension or incidents that neither side wishes to see.
