AKP Phnom Penh, April 30, 2026 -- Cambodian Acting Head of State Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and the newly appointed UNESCO Representative to Cambodia, Mr. Flavio Bonetti, discussed damage to cultural heritage sites – particularly Preah Vihear Temple – during recent Cambodia-Thailand border tensions.

The exchange took place during a meeting at the Senate’s Solidarity Palace in Phnom Penh this morning, according to H.E. Chea Thyrith, Spokesperson of the Senate.

Mr. Bonetti expressed regret over the damage to World Heritage sites, especially Preah Vihear Temple, and affirmed UNESCO’s commitment to working with relevant Cambodian institutions on restoration and preservation efforts.

During the meeting, Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed appreciation for UNESCO’s longstanding contributions to Cambodia, particularly in the fields of education and the safeguarding of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

He also acknowledged UNESCO’s role in inscribing Cambodian heritage properties on the World Heritage List.

By Heng Panha