A verbal clash occurred between Thai soldiers and Cambodian forces on June 27, when the Thais allowed tourists to visit Ta Moan Thom Temple during curfew hours, which violated the agreement between the two countries.
According to Lieutenant General Mali Socheata, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, under the agreement, the temple is closed from 3pm.
“Unfortunately, on that day, at 15:15, after the temple had closed, our protective forces had already left the site,” she said in a press release.
“A group of around 100 Thai tourists, including the former Minister of the Interior of Thailand and the chairman of the Bhumjaithai Party, were allowed to visit the temple, without prior notice, as stated by the Thai Army spokesperson.
“If the Thai army is truly transparent and has no ill intentions, it should act in accordance with the agreement, which clearly outlines the time and conditions for accessing the temple,” she continued.
The press release stated that Cambodian forces attempted to resolve the situation calmly, without violence or disruption, always respecting the agreement.
The video published by some Thai media and a statement from a Thai army spokesperson contained false information, causing confusion and ill intent to incite hatred and discrimination between the two countries, as it only presented one side of the story.
Socheata called on Thai journalists to stop spreading false, exaggerated and misleading information which was clearly an attempt to tarnish Cambodia’s reputation.
She reminded everyone that the Thai side should honour the existing agreement in good faith, avoiding actions that distort the truth and undermine mutual trust.
The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces remain committed to maintaining peace, stability and friendly relations with its neighbours, but will never allow any country to violate its sovereignty, she added.
