AKP Phnom Penh, January 22, 2026 —

Senior Cambodian heritage officials met with UNESCO’s newly appointed representative on Thursday to strengthen cooperation on the preservation and development of the Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage destination.

H.E. Phan Nady, Director General of the National Authority for Sambor Prei Kuk, hosted Mr. Flavio Bonetti at the authority’s headquarters to discuss ongoing conservation strategies and sustainable development frameworks for the ancient temple complex.

During the meeting, H.E. Phan Nady reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to working alongside UNESCO to safeguard the Kingdom’s cultural assets. 

He emphasised the importance of maintaining international standards in the management of the site, which dates back to the pre-Angkorian Chenla Empire.

"We look forward to a continued partnership with UNESCO to ensure the protection of our heritage while promoting responsible development," H.E. Phan Nady said.

Mr. Bonetti, making one of his first official visits since his appointment, commended the National Authority's efforts in maintaining the structural integrity of the site. Following the talks, the UNESCO envoy conducted a field visit to the monument zone to personally assess current conservation projects and the site's infrastructure needs.

Sambor Prei Kuk, located in Kampong Thom province, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2017 and remains a focal point for Cambodia’s cultural tourism and archaeological research.

By K. Rithy Reak