Asian Cultural Council voices deep concern for civilians as Cambodian-Thai border clashes resume

Amid renewed confrontation in the Cambodian-Thai border dispute, the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) expressed deep concern over clashes involving heavy weapons and bombing aircraft along the border on December 7–8, 2025. It said the fighting had injured and killed civilians and forced people from their homes, highlighting attacks on national and international heritage sites, including Preah Vihear, Ta Moan Thom, Ta Krabei and Khnar temples. The Asian Cultural Council called on the armed forces of both countries to stop violence immediately, prioritise civilian safety and protect national and international cultural heritage as humanity’s priceless property. It urged an immediate halt to all military-force activities threatening the peace and stability of the two countries and a sincere commitment to resolve disputes peacefully, respecting the Cambodian-Thai Joint Statement on the Agreement of Peace and their obligations under international laws and treaties. It particularly cited the 1972 Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and the 1954 Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, to bring peace and normal relations between the two countries. The Asian Cultural Council supported efforts to promote reconciliation, diplomatic solutions and mutual understanding to build peace, trust, prosperity and unity across Asia, with its flourishing civilisations. By Pai Sokhim.