Ahead of Cambodia’s Peace Day celebration, Prime Minister Hun Manet has urged collective efforts to preserve peace for generations, cautioning against the regression seen in countries afflicted by war.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Mekong Quay City project in Kandal province’s Arey Ksat town on December 17, Manet emphasised that peace not only drives infrastructure development but also improves citizens’ living conditions.
“This is the benefit of peace, which we must preserve – not just for 26 or 30 years but for hundreds of years, for our descendants,” he said.
The government officially designated December 29 as Cambodia’s Peace Day early this year. The holiday commemorates the end of decades of conflict on that day in 1998 and will now be observed annually as a national holiday and public day of rest.
“In just 12 days, we will celebrate the 26th anniversary of Cambodia’s peace. This is not just a day off, but a day to celebrate life. We no longer hear gunfire, as is the case in some countries. Even within the 10 ASEAN nations, some are still at war,” the prime minister said.
He underscored the importance of appreciating peace by recognising the consequences of losing it, referencing war-torn countries such as Syria and Ukraine. He noted that only four years ago, these nations were thriving, but conflict has since destroyed cities and claimed countless lives.
“Talking about peace is never redundant. We must keep reminding ourselves because peace is very fragile. Some of our neighbouring countries are also experiencing problems they didn’t have a few years ago,” he said.
The prime minister continued, “In Europe, Africa and elsewhere, things were peaceful a few years ago, but now that peace is gone. Cambodia, however, has enjoyed 26 years of peace. Some doubted Cambodia’s ability to maintain peace, yet these 26 years mark the longest period of stability in 500 years. We don’t want to stop at just 26.”
The prime minister reflected on Cambodia’s history, noting that during times of peace, the nation built key infrastructure, such as the Monivong Bridge and Chroy Changvar Bridge. However, when conflict erupted, these bridges were destroyed.
He stressed, “War destroys even the tallest buildings. That’s why we must unite to protect and preserve peace, which is a crucial foundation for our country.”
According to the Ministry of National Defence, over 10,000 personnel will take part in the three-day Peace Day celebrations, featuring exhibitions and fireworks displays.
The ministry described the day as a response to the profound wishes of the Cambodian people, who cherish peace and reject war.
This year’s celebrations aim to remind all generations of Cambodians of the suffering, devastation and hardship caused by war and division. The event seeks to inspire citizens to reject conflict, recognise the value of peace and foster a culture of harmony across the nation.
Most importantly, the ministry called on all Cambodians to actively protect and preserve peace, which it described as “the lifeblood of the nation and the foundation for Cambodia’s development and the well-being of its people”.
