AKP Phnom Penh, January 22, 2026 --

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has issued a strong protest against all actions undertaken by Thailand at Ta Krabei Temple, reaffirming Cambodia’s position that the site lies within its sovereign territory.

In a statement released this morning, the Ministry said its protest is made in accordance with the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Jan. 2, 2026, concerning Thailand’s violations. The protest covers both direct actions affecting the structure of Ta Krabei Temple and the construction of infrastructure in areas surrounding the site.

The Ministry stressed that Ta Krabei Temple, which has recently suffered near-total destruction as a result of shelling by the Thai military, is a long-protected archaeological site under the care of Cambodia’s cultural institutions. It is also a sacred place of worship that has been revered by the Cambodian people for generations, in accordance with their beliefs, traditions, and customs.

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts categorically opposed the use of armed force by the Thai military to invade and occupy Ta Krabei Temple, as well as any projects or activities that alter the status of the area. Such actions, it said, constitute a serious violation of fundamental and peremptory principles of international law, which prohibit the acquisition or occupation of territory through the use of force.

The Ministry called on Thailand to immediately cease all destructive actions and projects in and around Ta Krabei Temple and to pursue a peaceful resolution of border issues in full accordance with the Franco-Siamese Treaties of 1904 and 1907.

By C. Nika