រាជបណ្ឌិត្យសភាកម្ពុជា

ទិដ្ឋភាពមួយចំនួន ស្ដីពី មេដឹកនាំ(Some Overviews on Leaders) ដោយ៖ ឯកឧត្ដមបណ្ឌិត អ៊ុំ ប៉ុម ជំនួយការរាជបណ្ឌិត្យសភាកម្ពុជា

ជាទូទៅបើគេនិយាយពីធម្មជាតិ នៃការរស់នៅ របស់មនុស្សក្នុងសង្គមគេតែងតែជួបប្រទះនឹងមនុស្សពីរប្រភេទ ដែលមាន ឋានៈសង្គមខុសប្លែកគ្នា ពោលគឺ មនុស្សមួយប្រភេទមានឋានៈជាមេដឹកនាំ ហើយមនុស្សមួយប្រភេទទៀតជាអ្នកនៅក្រោមបង្គាប់។ ជាធម្មតាមនុស្សទាំងពីរប្រភេទនេះតែងរស់នៅជាមួយគ្នា មានទំនាក់ទំនងគ្នា ក្រោមកិច្ចសន្យាសង្គមមួយច្បាស់លាស់។ ដោយឡែក បើគេនិយាយពីបរិមាណវិញ ក៏យ៉ាងនេះដែរ មនុស្សចាប់ពីបីនាក់ឡើងទៅជាក្រឹត្យក្រមត្រូវមានមនុស្សម្នាក់ធ្វើជាមេដឹកនាំ អាស្រ័យទៅលើការស្រុះស្រួលគ្នារបស់អ្នករស់នៅក្នុង ក្រុម។ ដូច្នេះ ទាក់ទងទៅនឹងបញ្ហាមេដឹកនាំ សំណួរអាចចោទសួរឡើងថា តើមេដឹកនាំជានរណា? មានលក្ខណៈវិនិច្ឆ័យបែបណា? មានអ្វីខ្លះទៅជាមុខងារ? ហើយមាននិន្នាការនយោបាយបែបណា? តើកត្ដាអ្វីខ្លះដែល ជម្រុញឱ្យមនុស្សក្លាយទៅជាមេដឹកនាំបាន? ខាងក្រោមនេះគឺជាចម្លើយ ឆ្លើយតបទៅនឹងសំណួរដែលបានចោទឡើងខាងលើ។

សូមចូលអានខ្លឹមសារបន្ថែម និងមានអត្ថបទស្រាវជ្រាវច្រើនទៀតតាមរយៈតំណភ្ជាប់ដូចខាងក្រោម៖

https://rac.gov.kh/researchs-categories/1/researchs?page=6

  ថ្ងៃចន្ទ, 10 កក្កដា 2023 ម៉ោង 09:35 PM

អំពីប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ និងព្រឹត្តិការណ៍សំខាន់១៧ចំណុច គប្បីចងចាំ!

ស្ថិតនៅភាគខាងជើងប្រទេសកម្ពុជា ក្នុងភូមិសាស្ត្រឃុំស្រអែមស្រុកជាំក្សាន្តខេត្តព្រះវិហារ ប្រាសាទដ៏ចំណាស់មួយដែលមានអាយុជាងមួយពាន់ឆ្នាំ កំពុងឈរបង្អួតរាងយ៉ាងរឹងមាំនៅលើកំពូលភ្នំព្រះវិហារនៃជួរភ្នំដងរែកដែលមានកម្ពស់ប្រមាណ៦២៥ម៉ែត្រពីនីវ៉ូទឹកសមុទ្រ នាំឱ្យមនុស្សម្នាកោតស្ញប់ស្ញែង ចាត់ទុកជាទីសក្ការៈនិងស្គាល់ច្បាស់ថាជាប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារដ៏ពិសិដ្ឋរបស់ខ្មែរគ្រប់ជំនាន់។ កាលសម័យអង្គរ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារគឺមានឈ្មោះដើមថាស្រីសិក្ខាគីរីស្វារៈ មានន័យថាជាម្ចាស់នៃកំពូលភ្នំ ហើយក៏ជាឈ្មោះនៅលិង្គថ្មព្រះឥសូរ ដែលស្ដេចជំនាន់មុនយកទៅតម្កល់លើភ្នំនេះ។

តាមការស្រាវជ្រាវពីឯកសារប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រខ្មែរជាច្រើន ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារចាប់ផ្ដើមកសាងឡើងក្នុងរជ្ជកាលព្រះបាទសុរិយវរ្ម័នទីមួយនៃគ្រិស្តសករាជឆ្នាំ៨៨៩ ធ្វើឡើងអំពីថ្មភក់នៅលើទីតាំងខ្ពស់មួយនៃជួរភ្នំដងរែក ដែលកាលនោះគឺស្ថិតនៅចំកណ្តាលនៃអតីតទឹកដីមហានគរខ្មែរ ដែលបច្ចុប្បន្នគឺស្ថិតក្នុងទឹកដីខេត្តព្រះវិហារ ជាប់ខេត្តស៊ីសាកេតរបស់ប្រទេសថៃ។ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារគឺជាតំបន់ប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រសាងសង់ក្នុងអំឡុងចុងសតវត្សទី៩ បញ្ចប់ទៅនៅដើមសតវត្សរ៍ទី១២ ក្រោមរជ្ជកាលព្រះបាទសុរិយវរ្ម័នទីពីរនៃសម័យមហានគរ ដើម្បីឧទ្ទិសដល់ព្រះឥសូរដែលជាព្រះអាទិទេពនៅក្នុងព្រហ្មញ្ញសាសនា។

ជាបន្ត យើងខ្ញុំសូមធ្វើការសង្ខេបពីព្រឹត្តិការណ៍ និងកាលបរិច្ឆេទសំខាន់ៗ ដែលកុលបុត្រាបុត្រីកម្ពុជរដ្ឋគប្បីចងចាំឱ្យបានច្បាស់ ដូចខាងក្រោម៖

១- ឆ្នាំ៨៨៩៖ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារចាប់ផ្ដើមកសាងឡើងក្នុងរជ្ជកាលព្រះបាទសុរិយវរ្ម័នទីមួយ (សាងសង់ចុងស.វ ទី៩ និងបញ្ចប់ស.វ.ទី១២)។

២- ឆ្នាំ១៩៥៤៖ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហាររងការឈ្លានពានដណ្ដើមចង់បានជាច្រើនលើកច្រើនសាពីសំណាក់ប្រទេសថៃ ហើយជម្លោះរវាងថៃនិងកម្ពុជា ចាប់ផ្តើមផ្ទុះឡើងខ្លាំង។

៣- ថ្ងៃទី៦ ខែតុលា ឆ្នាំ១៩៥៩៖ កម្ពុជា ដាក់ពាក្យបណ្ដឹងទៅតុលាការយុត្តិធម៌អន្តរជាតិក្រុងឡាអេ ដើម្បីស្នើសុំឱ្យតុលាការប្រគល់អធិបតេយ្យដែនដីប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារមកឱ្យកម្ពុជា និងទាមទារឱ្យថៃដកកងកម្លាំងប្រដាប់អាវុធរបស់ខ្លួនចេញពីតំបន់ប្រាសាទ ក្រោយការតវ៉ាតាមរយៈការទូតជាមួយថៃបរាជ័យ។

៤- ថ្ងៃទី៨ ខែធ្នូ ឆ្នាំ១៩៥៩ សារណារបស់កម្ពុជាត្រូវបានបញ្ជូនទៅដល់ដៃតុលាការតាមពេលកំណត់ តែភាគីថៃវិញបែរជាបញ្ជូនពាក្យបណ្ដឹងមួយបដិសេធមិនទទួលស្គាល់សមត្ថកិច្ចរបស់តុលាការអន្តរជាតិក្នុងការជំនុំជម្រះបណ្ដឹងរបស់កម្ពុជា។

៥- ថ្ងៃទី១០ - ១៥ ខែមេសា ឆ្នាំ១៩៦០៖ សវនការជាសាធារណៈដើម្បីជំនំជម្រះលើបណ្ដឹងជំទាស់របស់ភាគីថៃ។

៦- ថ្ងៃទី២៦ ខែឧសភា ឆ្នាំ១៩៦១ តុលាការយុត្តិធម៌អន្តរជាតិក្រុងឡាអេ បានច្រានចោលបណ្តឹងជំទាស់របស់ភាគីថៃ ដោយប្រកាសជាសាធារណៈថា តុលាការមានសមត្ថកិច្ចពេញលេញក្នុងការដំណើរការអង្គជំនុំជម្រះលើបណ្ដឹងរបស់កម្ពុជា។

៧- ថ្ងៃទី១៥ ខែមិថុនា ឆ្នាំ១៩៦២៖ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារត្រូវបានសាលក្រមតុលាការអន្តរជាតិនៃទីក្រុងឡាអេ បានសម្រេចឱ្យភាគីកម្ពុជាឈ្នះក្តីលើប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ លើភាគីថៃ។

៨- ថ្ងៃទី៧ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០០៨៖ អង្គការយូណេស្កូ បានសម្រេចដាក់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហាររបស់កម្ពុជា ចូលទៅក្នុងបញ្ជីបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោកក្នុងសម័យប្រជុំលើកទី៣២ នាទីក្រុងកេបិច ប្រទេសកាណាដា ក្រោមសេចក្តីសម្រេច 32 COM 8B. 102 ។

៩- ថ្ងៃទី១០ ខែតុលា ឆ្នាំ២០០១៖ រាជរដ្ឋាភិបាលកម្ពុជា បានស្នើសុំប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារចុះក្នុងបញ្ជីរបស់អង្គការយូណេស្កូ។

១០- ថ្ងៃទី៣០ ខែមិថុនា ឆ្នាំ២០០៦៖ ការបញ្ជូនសំណុំឯកសារសម្រេចទៅមជ្ឈមណ្ឌលបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោកយូណេស្កូ ក្រុងប៉ារីស។

១១- ថ្ងៃទី២៣-២៩ ខែតុលា ឆ្នាំ២០០៦៖ បេសកកម្មបច្ចេកទេសរបស់តំណាងក្រុមប្រឹក្សាអន្តរជាតិ វាយតម្លៃប្រាង្គប្រាសាទ និងរមណីយដ្ឋាន ICOMOS នៅតំបន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ។

១២- ថ្ងៃទី២១ ខែមករា ឆ្នាំ២០០៧៖ សេចក្ដីយល់ព្រមលើសំណើចុះបញ្ជីដោយ ICOMOS។

១៣- ថ្ងៃទី២៣ ខែមិថុនា - ថ្ងៃទី២ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០០៧៖ កិច្ចប្រជុំលើកទី៣១ របស់គណៈកម្មាធិការបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោ នៅហ្គ្រីសឆឺច (Christchuech) ប្រទេសណូវែលហ្សេឡង់។

១៤- ថ្ងៃទី៧ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០០៨៖ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារត្រូវបានចុះបញ្ជីជាសម្បត្តិបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោកក្នុងកិច្ចប្រជុំទី៣២ របស់គណៈកម្មាធិការបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោកនៃអង្គការយូណេស្កូ នៅទីក្រុងកេបិច ប្រទេសកាណាដា។

១៥- ថ្ងៃទី១៥ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០០៨៖ ថៃបានទាហានរបស់ខ្លួនមកឈរជើងនៅក្នុងបរិវេណវត្តកែវសិក្ខាគីរីស្វារៈ ក្បែរតំបន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ ចម្ងាយប្រមាណ៣០០ម៉ែត្រពីទឹកដីកម្ពុជា។

១៦- ថ្ងៃទី១១ ខែសីហា ឆ្នាំ២០១០៖ កម្ពុជាបានផ្ញើលិខិតទៅអង្គការសហប្រជាជាតិនាក្រុងញ៉ូវយ៉ក ដើម្បីសូមអន្តរាគមន៍អង្គការសហប្រជាជាតិ ឱ្យមានយន្តកម្មអន្តរជាតិ ដើម្បីដោះស្រាយជម្លោះព្រំដែនខ្មែរ-ថៃ មុំជាប់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ។ ថៃបានបង្កើតផែនទីជាឯកតោភាគី មានទំហំ ៤,៦គីឡូម៉ែត្រការ៉េ ជាប់នឹងប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារថាជារបស់ខ្លួន។ ផែនទីនេះខុសបញ្ច្រាស់ទាំងស្រុងពីសាលក្រមតុលាការអន្តរជាតិ ដែលមានន័យថា ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារស្ថិតលើទឹកដីខ្មែរ និងដែនអធិតេយ្យភាពរបស់កម្ពុជា។

១៧- នៅថ្ងៃទី១១ ខែវិច្ឆិកា ឆ្នាំ២០១៣ តុលាការអាយ.ស៊ី.ជេ បានប្រកាសក្នុងការសម្រេចចិត្តជាឯកច្ឆន្ទ តាមសាលក្រមឆ្នាំ១៩៦២ របស់តុលាការអន្តរជាតិ បានប្រគល់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារទាំងអស់ ឱ្យមកកម្ពុជា ហើយភាគីថៃមានកាតព្វកិច្ចត្រូវតែដកកងទ័ព ប៉ូលិស ឬឆ្មាំថៃដែលឈរជើងក្នុងតំបន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារទាំងអស់ដោយគ្មានលក្ខខណ្ឌ។

តាមរយៈសិលាចារឹកដែលមានឆ្លាក់ចារនៅលើប្រាសាទបាពួន សិលាចារឹក K-583 បានចារថា មានព្រះអង្គម្ចាស់មួយអង្គព្រះនាមឥន្ទ្រាយុទ្ធ ជាក្សត្រដែលខ្លាំងពូកែ អាចច្បាំងយកជ័យជម្នះលើស្ដេចចាមបាននោះ ទ្រង់ជាក្សត្រដែលបានយកលិង្គថ្មធម្មជាតិមួយ ឈ្មោះស្រីសិខវិស្វរៈ មកតាំងនឹងមកប្រតិស្ថានលើប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ។

បើតាមអត្ថបទសិលាចារឹកនៅប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារលើ K-581 ចារជាភាសាខ្មែរបុរាណនិងជាភាសាសំស្ក្រឹត ប្រវត្តិប្រាសាទដ៏ពិសិដ្ឋរបស់ខ្មែរមួយនេះ គឺមានទំនាក់ទំនងជាមួយព្រាហ្មណ៍ម្នាក់ឈ្មោះថា តៈបៈស្វិន្រ្ទបណ្ឌិត។ ព្រាហ្មណ៍តៈបៈស្វិន្ទ្របណ្ឌិត មានអាស្រមមួយនៅនឹងដែនដីនៃទីតាំងប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ។ នៅអំឡុងឆ្នាំ១០២៤ នៃគ្រិស្ដសករាជ ព្រាហ្មណ៍នោះបានទទួលអង្រឹងស្នែងមាសនិងវត្ថុដ៏មានតម្លៃដទៃទៀតជាច្រើនពីព្រះបាទសុរិយវរ្ម័នទីមួយ ដែលជាការដឹងគុណពីព្រះអង្គចំពោះព្រាហ្មណ៍តបស្វិន្ទ្របណ្ឌិតក្នុងការថែរក្សាលិង្គព្រះអទិទេព។ នៅលើសិលាចារឹក មានបញ្ជាក់ទៀតថា ព្រះបាទសុរិយវរ្ម័នទីមួយជាក្សត្រមានជំនឿខ្លាំងណាស់លើលិង្គអាទិទេពមួយអង្គនេះ ហើយកំណត់ត្រាសិលាចារឹកបញ្ជាក់ច្បាស់ៗថា សីវលិង្គនេះតែងតែសម្ដែងមហិទ្ធិឫទ្ធិបដិហារឱ្យព្រះអង្គបានទត។ ក្នុងបរិវេណប្រាសាទ មានស្រះទឹកបុរាណមួយមានទីតាំងស្ថិតនៅខាងឆ្វេងព្រះថ្នល់ ចន្លោះគោបុរៈទី៤ និងគោបុរៈទី៥ ទទឹងប្រវែង១៦,៨០ម៉ែត្រ និងបណ្ដោយ៣៧,៨០ម៉ែត្រ។ បើតាមតំណាលតៗគ្នាមកល្បីថា ស្រះទឹកនេះជាទឹកមន្តស័ក្តិសិទ្ធិអស្ចារ្យសម្រាប់យកទៅប្រើប្រាស់ពិធីសក្ការៈផ្សេងៗ ហើយសូម្បីតែអតីតព្រះមហាក្សត្រថៃ ព្រះបាទភូមិបុលអាឌុលយ៉ាដេត ធ្លាប់បានប្រើទឹកពីស្រះនេះ ដើម្បីបំពេញពិធីអភិសេកឡើងគ្រងរាជសម្បត្តិកាលពីថ្ងៃទី៩ ខែមិថុនា ឆ្នាំ១៩៤៦ ផងដែរ។

ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហាររងការឈ្លានពានដណ្ដើមចង់បានជាច្រើនលើកច្រើនសាពីសំណាក់ប្រទេសថៃ ហើយជម្លោះរវាងថៃនិងកម្ពុជា ចាប់ផ្តើមផ្ទុះឡើងខ្លាំងក្នុងឆ្នាំ១៩៥៤ បន្ទាប់ពីកម្ពុជាទទួលបានឯករាជ្យពីបារាំងដោយថៃក៏បានបញ្ជូនកងកម្លាំងប្រដាប់អាវុធចូលមកកាន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារទាំងគឃ្លើន។ រដ្ឋាភិបាលកម្ពុជាពេលនោះ ដែលមានព្រះបាទសម្ដេចព្រះនរោត្តម សីហនុ ព្រះបរមរតនកោដិ ជាប្រមុខរដ្ឋ បានដឹកនាំកម្ពុជាបើកដំណើរការទាមទារកម្មសិទ្ធិតាមរយៈការទូតជាមួយថៃ ប៉ុន្តែត្រូវបរាជ័យនាំឱ្យកម្ពុជាងាកទៅរកយន្តការតុលាការវិញម្ដង ដោយបានដាក់ពាក្យបណ្ដឹងទៅតុលាការយុត្តិធម៌អន្តរជាតិក្រុងឡាអេ នៅថ្ងៃទី៦ ខែតុលា ឆ្នាំ១៩៥៩ ដើម្បីស្នើសុំឱ្យតុលាការប្រគល់អធិបតេយ្យដែនដីប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារមកឱ្យកម្ពុជា និងទាមទារឱ្យថៃដកកងកម្លាំងប្រដាប់អាវុធរបស់ខ្លួនចេញពីតំបន់ប្រាសាទ។ នៅថ្ងៃទី៨ ខែធ្នូ ឆ្នាំ១៩៥៩ សារណារបស់កម្ពុជាត្រូវបានបញ្ជូនទៅដល់ដៃតុលាការតាមពេលកំណត់ តែភាគីថៃវិញបែរជាបញ្ជូនពាក្យបណ្ដឹងមួយបដិសេធមិនទទួលស្គាល់សមត្ថកិច្ចរបស់តុលាការអន្តរជាតិក្នុងការជំនុំជម្រះបណ្ដឹងរបស់កម្ពុជាទៅវិញ។

សវនការជាសាធារណៈដើម្បីជំនំជម្រះលើបណ្ដឹងជំទាស់របស់ភាគីថៃ ត្រូវបានបើកធ្វើឡើងចាប់ពីថ្ងៃទី១០ រហូតដល់ថ្ងៃទី១៥ ខែមេសា ឆ្នាំ១៩៦០ ហើយថ្ងៃទី២៦ ខែឧសភា ឆ្នាំ១៩៦១ តុលាការយុត្តិធម៌អន្តរជាតិក្រុងឡាអេ បានច្រានចោលបណ្តឹងជំទាស់របស់ភាគីថៃ ដោយប្រកាសជាសាធារណៈថា តុលាការមានសមត្ថកិច្ចពេញលេញក្នុងការដំណើរការអង្គជំនុំជម្រះលើបណ្ដឹងរបស់កម្ពុជា។ តាមរយៈបន្ទាត់ព្រំដែននៅក្នុងផែនទីឧបសម្ព័ន្ធទីមួយ ដែលគេធ្វើឡើងរវាងបារាំងសៀម ក្នុងសន្ធិសញ្ញាឆ្នាំ១៩០៤ បង្ហាញថាប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារស្ថិតនៅក្នុងទឹកដីកម្ពុជាយ៉ាងពិតប្រាកដ ដោយថ្ងៃទី១៥ មិថុនា ឆ្នាំ១៩៦២ ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារត្រូវតុលាការអន្តរជាតិក្រុងឡាអេ សម្រេចសាលក្រមប្រគល់ឱ្យភាគីកម្ពុជា ជាអ្នកឈ្នះក្តីរឿងវិវាទកម្ពុជាថៃ។

ប្រាសាទដ៏ពិសិដ្ឋរបស់កម្ពុជាមួយនេះ ត្រូវបានចុះបញ្ជីជាសម្បត្តិបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោកក្នុងកិច្ចប្រជុំទី៣២ របស់គណៈកម្មាធិការបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោកនៃអង្គការយូណេស្កូ នាថ្ងៃទី៧ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០០៨ ធ្វើឡើងនៅទីក្រុងកេបិចប្រទេសកាណាដា។ វិវាទព្រំដែនកម្ពុជាថៃនៅតំបន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ ចាប់ផ្ដើមផ្ទុះជាថ្មីអំឡុងខែមិថុនា ឆ្នាំ២០០៨ ជាពេលដែលប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារស្ថិតក្នុងការពិចារណាដាក់បញ្ចូលជាសម្បត្តិបេតិកភណ្ឌពិភពលោក ដោយនៅថ្ងៃទី១៥ ខែកក្កដា ឆ្នាំ២០០៨ ថៃបានទាហានរបស់ខ្លួនមកឈរជើងនៅក្នុងបរិវេណវត្តកែវសិក្ខាគីរីស្វារៈ ក្បែរតំបន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ ចម្ងាយប្រមាណ៣០០ម៉ែត្រពីទឹកដីកម្ពុជា។ វិវាទនេះបានបង្កឱ្យមានការប៉ះទង្គិចផ្នែកយោធារវាងប្រទេសទាំងពីរ នឹងបង្កជាក្ដីក្ដាំជាថ្មីនៅលើតុលាការអន្តរជាតិអាយ.ស៊ី.ជេ។ រហូតដល់ខែធ្នូ ឆ្នាំពី២០១១ កិច្ចព្រមព្រៀងមួយ ត្រូវបានធ្វើឡើងដើម្បីដកកងទ័ពចេញពីតំបន់ជម្លោះ។ នៅថ្ងៃទី១១ ខែវិច្ឆិកា ឆ្នាំ២០១៣ តុលាការអាយ.ស៊ី.ជេ បានប្រកាសក្នុងការសម្រេចចិត្តជាឯកច្ឆន្ទ តាមសាលក្រមឆ្នាំ១៩៦២ របស់តុលាការអន្តរជាតិ បានប្រគល់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារទាំងអស់ ឱ្យមកកម្ពុជា ហើយភាគីថៃមានកាតព្វកិច្ចត្រូវតែដកកងទ័ព ប៉ូលិស ឬឆ្មាំថៃដែលឈរជើងក្នុងតំបន់ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារទាំងអស់ដោយគ្មានលក្ខខណ្ឌ។ 

  ថ្ងៃសុក្រ, 07 កក្កដា 2023 ម៉ោង 02:23 PM

មូលដ្ឋានគ្រឹះនៃពុទ្ធសាសនា ដោយ៖ លោក ឈុន ផាវ៉េង- វិទ្យាស្ថានមនុស្សសាស្រ្តនិងវិទ្យាសាស្រ្តសង្គម

ព្រះពុទ្ធសាសនាមានដើមកំណើតនៅ ប្រទេសឥណ្ឌាក្នុងសតវត្សរ៍ទី ៦ មុនគ.ស ប្រហែលគ្នានឹងសម័យទី២ នៃលទ្ធិសាសនាព្រាហ្មណ៍ ដោយព្រះសិទ្ធត្ថជាព្រះបុត្រានៃមហាក្សត្រព្រះអង្គបានត្រាស់ដឹងនូវព្រះធម៌ ហើយមានសង្ឃសាវ័កកាន់តែច្រើនបានដើរតាមមាគ៌ាជីវិតតាមព្រះអង្គ។ រហូតពេលបច្ចុប្បន្ន ពុទ្ធសាសនា ជាសាសនាមួយសំខាន់ក្នុងចំណោមសាសនាធំៗទាំងឡាយ នៅលើពិភពលោក។ ពុទ្ធសាសនាបាននិងកំពុងពង្រឹងអត្ថិភាពរបស់ខ្លួនយ៉ាងសកម្មតាមរយៈផ្សព្វផ្សាយមូលដ្ឋានគ្រឹះរបស់ខ្លួន។ តើអ្វីខ្លះជាមូលដ្ឋានគ្រឹះដ៏សំខាន់របស់ពុទ្ធសាសនា? ចម្លើយដ៏សាមញ្ញបំផុតទៅ នឹងសំណួរនេះគឺ៖ រតនត្រ័យ មានព្រះពុទ្ធ ព្រះធម៌ និង ព្រះសង្ឃ ។

សូមចូលអានខ្លឹមសារលម្អិត និងមានអត្ថបទច្រើនទៀតតាមរយៈតំណភ្ជាប់ដូចខាងក្រោម៖

https://rac.gov.kh/researchs-categories/1/researchs?page=6

  ថ្ងៃព្រហស្បតិ៍, 06 កក្កដា 2023 ម៉ោង 09:26 PM

How can Cambodia join Vietnam as a reliable ally of South Korea? By: Dr. Seun Sam

The high-ranking team of the Republic of Korea (RoK), led by President Yoon Suk Yeol, recently traveled to Vietnam, which is a neighboring country of Cambodia. President Yoon participated in a number of significant activities during the visit, including paying respects to the late Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum in Hanoi, paying a visit to Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, attending an official welcome ceremony with a 21-gun salute, speaking with President Thuong, attending a press conference with him, and witnessing the exchange of numerous cooperation documents.

Vietnam is seen as having a highly wise foreign policy because it is able to maintain cordial ties with all nations, including the US, Russia, Japan, the EU, Australia, and South Korea. The media frequently covers the tension between China and Vietnam related to the issues of the South China Sea, however, both nations assert that their relations are cordial and that there are many Chinese companies operating in Vietnam.

The primary foreign policy and strategies of Vietnam to entice South Korea (and other nations) to be partners can be summed up in the following eight points;

1. Business-friendly policies and regulations: Vietnam can continue to streamline its regulatory framework, making it more transparent and investor-friendly. Ensuring clear and efficient business processes, reducing bureaucracy, and simplifying administrative procedures can all contribute to creating a favorable investment environment.

2. Investment incentives: Offering attractive investment incentives can be a powerful motivating factor for South Korean companies to invest in Vietnam. Tax incentives, duty exemptions, and preferential treatment for specific industries or regions can encourage investment. Vietnam can also consider providing support in terms of land access, infrastructure development, and special economic zones.

3. Market access: Vietnam's growing middle class and expanding consumer market make it an appealing destination for South Korean businesses. Vietnam can highlight the access it provides to the ASEAN market, which encompasses a population of over 650 million people. By positioning itself as a gateway to Southeast Asia, Vietnam can attract South Korean companies seeking regional expansion opportunities.

4. Infrastructure development: Vietnam can invest in enhancing its infrastructure, such as roads, ports, airports, and digital connectivity. Efficient transportation networks and well-developed logistics capabilities are crucial factors for businesses considering investment. South Korean companies with expertise in infrastructure development can be encouraged to participate in these projects.

5. Skilled workforce and talent development: Vietnam can continue to invest in education and training programs to develop a skilled workforce. By focusing on vocational training, technical education, and language skills (including Korean language programs), Vietnam can offer a competitive advantage to South Korean companies looking for a capable workforce.

6. Technology transfer and innovation collaboration: Promoting technology transfer and collaboration between South Korean and Vietnamese companies can be mutually beneficial. Encouraging joint ventures, research collaborations, and knowledge-sharing initiatives can facilitate skills and technology transfer, enabling Vietnam to accelerate its industrial and innovation capabilities.

7. Networking and business matchmaking: Vietnam can organize trade fairs, exhibitions, and business matchmaking events to connect South Korean investors with local businesses and potential partners. Facilitating networking opportunities can foster relationships and build trust between Vietnamese and South Korean companies.

8. Promote success stories: Highlighting successful South Korean investments in Vietnam and their positive outcomes can showcase the country's potential and instill confidence in other South Korean investors. Sharing testimonials and success stories can help attract more interest and investment.

It's important for Vietnam to consistently promote its business advantages, actively engage with potential investors, and maintain a business-friendly environment to successfully attract South Korean investment.

If the Kingdom of Cambodia really want to become a good partner of South Korea, it can adopt several strategies, similar to what Vietnam has done. Here are some suggestions;

1. Enhance diplomatic relations: Cambodia could actively engage in diplomatic dialogue with South Korea, participating in regular meetings and discussions to strengthen bilateral ties. The countries can also exchange high-level visits by government officials to foster better understanding and cooperation.

2. Promote trade and investment: Cambodia can work on improving its business environment by streamlining regulations and offering favorable incentives to attract South Korean investors. By promoting trade fairs, exhibitions, and business matchmaking events, Cambodia can encourage South Korean businesses to explore opportunities and invest in various sectors in the country. All Cambodian diplomats abroad should be more active and exhibit the good things about Cambodia to attract more foreign investors to come to Cambodia.

3. Develop infrastructure: Cambodia could invest in developing its infrastructure, such as transportation networks, energy supply, and digital connectivity. This would improve the ease of doing business and facilitate trade between the two countries. South Korean companies, known for their expertise in infrastructure development, could be invited to participate in these projects.

4. Enhance educational and cultural exchanges: Cambodia can encourage student exchanges and collaboration between educational institutions in both countries. Establishing scholarships or joint research programs can provide opportunities for students and scholars to learn from each other. Cultural events, such as festivals, exhibitions, and performances, can foster mutual understanding and appreciation for each other's heritage.

5. Strengthen tourism cooperation: Cambodia could target South Korean tourists by showcasing its unique cultural and natural attractions. Promoting Cambodia's rich history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and ecotourism destinations through targeted marketing campaigns can attract more South Korean visitors. Additionally, improving air connectivity and facilitating travel arrangements can make it easier for tourists to choose Cambodia as their preferred destination.

6. Collaborate in technology and innovation: Cambodia can seek partnerships with South Korean companies and institutions in areas like information technology, advanced manufacturing, and research and development. Encouraging technology transfer, joint ventures, and research collaborations can help Cambodia acquire technological expertise and boost its industrial and innovation capabilities.

Overall, by actively engaging in trade, investment, education, cultural exchanges, and infrastructure development, Cambodia can establish itself as a valuable partner to South Korea, similar to Vietnam. It's important to consistently promote mutual interests and showcase the benefits of collaboration in order to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

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Dr. Seun Sam is a Policy Analyst of the Royal Academy of Cambodia. 

  ថ្ងៃពុធ, 05 កក្កដា 2023 ម៉ោង 09:26 PM

សេណារីយោនៅពីក្រោយរដ្ឋប្រហារកូនកាត់នៅរុស្ស៊ី ខែមិថុនា ឆ្នាំ២០២៣ ដោយ៖ បណ្ឌិត ខែក វីរៈ ឯកសារជំនួយស្មារតី

កាលពីថ្ងៃទី២៤ ខែមិថុនា ឆ្នាំ២០២៣ រដ្ឋាភិបាលមូស្គូ (Moscow) បានប្រកាសចាត់វិធានការប្រឆាំងភេរវកម្មដោយបានហាមមិនអនុញ្ញាតឱ្យប្រជាពលរដ្ឋចេញពីផ្ទះឡើយ ក្រោយពេល ក្រុមទាហានស៊ីឈ្នួល វ៉ាក់ណែ (Wagner) បានលើកទ័ពចេញពីទឹកដីអ៊ុយក្រែន រួចបែរចុងកាណុងតម្រង់ឆ្ពោះទៅកាន់ទីក្រុង Moscow។ ការណ៍នេះ នាំឱ្យពិភពលោក ពិសេសអ្នកតាមដានព្រឹត្តិការណ៍អន្តរជាតិហាក់មានការយកចិត្តទុកដាក់យ៉ាងខ្លាំង ព្រមទាំងមានការចោទសួរយ៉ាងខ្លាំងពីសំណាក់សាធារណជន អ្នកតាមដានព្រឹត្តិការណ៍អន្តរជាតិ ក៏ដូចជាក្នុងស្រទាប់អ្នកសិក្សាស្រាវជ្រាវ ព្រោះថាក្រុមទាហានស៊ីឈ្នួលWagner គឺជាដៃគូប្រយុទ្ធដ៏សំខាន់របស់កងទ័ពរុស្ស៊ីនៅក្នុងសមរភូមិអ៊ុយក្រែននេះ ហើយជាពិសេសនៅតំបន់ភាគខាងកើតអ៊ុយក្រែនតែម្តង។

ម្យ៉ាងវិញទៀត ក្រុមទាហានស៊ីឈ្នួលWagner ក៏បានទទួលអាវុធពីកងទ័ពរុស្ស៊ី ដើម្បីប្រយុទ្ធនៅអ៊ុយក្រែនថែមទៀតផង។ ផ្ទុយទៅវិញ នៅដំណាក់កាលចុងក្រោយនេះ ស្ថានការណ៍បានឈានទៅដល់បរិបទថ្មី ព្រោះគេពិតជាមិននឹកស្មានដល់ថា ក្រុមទាហានស៊ីឈ្នួលរុស្ស៊ី Wagner អាចងាកមកចាក់ពីក្រោយខ្នងរុស្ស៊ីវិញនោះឡើយ។

ដូច្នេះ តើក្រុម Wagner និងរុស្ស៊ីមានទំនាក់ទំនងគ្នាស្អិតរមួត និងល្អូកល្អឿននឹងគ្នាដល់កម្រិតណា? ហើយតើមានដើមចមអ្វីខ្លះទើបធ្វើឱ្យ Wagner និងរុស្ស៊ីឈានដល់ដំណាក់កាលចែកផ្លូវគ្នាយ៉ាងនេះ?

សូមចូលអានខ្លឹមសារលម្អិត និងមានអត្ថបទស្រាវជ្រាវច្រើនទៀតតាមរយៈតំណភ្ជាប់ដូចខាងក្រម​៖

http://rac.gov.kh/researchs-categories/10/researchs?page=2

  ថ្ងៃអង្គារ, 04 កក្កដា 2023 ម៉ោង 11:34 AM

Can a cordial relationship between South Korea and Japan be restored? By: Dr. Seun Sam

Japan and South Korea share a protracted and complicated history of hostility. Following Japan's 1910–1945 rule of Korea, which included forced labor and sexual slavery, tensions increased. Both nations have worked hard in recent years to put their difficult past behind them and forge stronger ties. However, there have been a number of obstacles, including disputes over territorial claims and business-related difficulties. This article will look at the history of the connection between South Korea and Japan, the difficulties that have emerged, and the potential future for these two countries to forge a friendly and mutually beneficial partnership.

The long-standing animosity between South Korea and Japan

A long-standing enmity between South Korea and Japan that extends back to the early 20th century has complicated their relationship. The colonization on Korea by Japan between 1910 and 1945, which was characterized by violent persecution, forced labor, and other violations of human rights, can be linked to the origins of this hostility[1].

Following World War II, Japan made amends for its deeds, made restitution, and the two nations established diplomatic ties. The relationship between the two nations has remained tense since the past's wounds have not completely healed.

The topic of "comfort women" a euphemism used to denote women who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II, is one of the major issues of dispute between the two nations. A more sincere apology from Japan as well as financial support for the victims have been asked by South Korea [2].

Other difficulties include debates about how a group of tiny islands should be portrayed in school textbooks and territorial conflicts over that nation. While there have been efforts to repair relations between South Korea and Japan, such as the signing of a treaty in 2015 intended to resolve the issue of the "comfort women," progress has been slow and both sides continue to harbor mistrust of one another[3].

It will take a concerted effort from both nations to acknowledge the past, resolve remaining issues, and strive toward a future of mutual respect and understanding in order to overcome this historical hatred.

The roots of the conflict: History and politics

Political tensions and a long history of hostility between South Korea and Japan have complicated their relationship and been difficult to resolve. The subject of Japan's colonial authority over the Korean Peninsula from 1910 to 1945 is at the core of this conflict. Koreans were subjected to sexual slavery, forced labor, and other forms of tyranny at this time. These crimes against humanity have deeply damaged the Korean psyche and continue to fuel animosity and hostility toward Japan[4].

The problem with Japan's management of its wartime heritage adds to the strain. Japan has been charged with minimizing its wartime atrocities and refusing to accept accountability for the pain it inflicted. As a result, there have been protests worldwide and in South Korea as well as diplomatic difficulties between the two nations.

The violence has also been exacerbated by the political environments in both nations. Both countries have strong nationalist emotions, and officials on both sides pander to their constituencies by adopting a hostile tone toward the opposing nation. Leaders have found it challenging to come to an understanding and work toward resolving the historical and political differences that separate them as a result.

Attempts have been made to strengthen ties between South Korea and Japan despite these obstacles. On matters like commerce and security, there have been diplomatic discussions, and some advancements have been achieved. However, recent events that rekindle old hostilities frequently cast a shadow on these attempts. It is unclear if South Korea and Japan will be able to forge a friendly relationship, but it is certain that doing so will require a dedication to addressing the political and historical causes of the conflict[5].

Current issues: Territorial disputes and forced labor compensation

History-based hostility has harmed the relationship between South Korea and Japan, and there are still a number of problems that need to be fixed. Territorial disputes are one of the most significant current challenges that continue to affect their relationship. The Dokdo/Takeshima Islets, which are situated in the Sea of Japan (East Sea) between South Korea and Japan, are claimed by both nations. Tensions between the two nations have been caused by this long-running territorial dispute, which has been going on for decades [6].

The controversy regarding compensation for forced labor also still affects their relationship. Many Koreans were compelled to labor in Japan's mines and industries during World War II, when many of them endured hazardous and terrible working conditions. Japan did not compensate these laborers and their families following the war. There have been requests in recent years for Japan to compensate the remaining forced laborers and their families, but the Japanese government has resisted these calls.

It has been challenging for South Korea and Japan to forge an amicable relationship as a result of these problems. But there have been initiatives to settle these disputes, such as diplomatic discussions and international arbitration. Whether these attempts are effective remains to be seen, but there is optimism that both nations may put their long-standing hostility behind them and forge a constructive partnership.

The impact of historical animosity on the two countries

The long-standing hostility between South Korea and Japan is well-documented and firmly anchored in each country's past. A turbulent relationship between the two nations for many years has had a big impact on their economic, political, and cultural relationships.

The legacy of Japan's colonial authority over Korea at the beginning of the 20th century is one of the main causes of this hostility. During this time, the Japanese perpetrated numerous atrocities on the Korean people, including forced labor, sexual enslavement, and cultural repression. This has left a lasting psychological scar on the Korean people and stoked anti-Japanese animosity[7].

On the other hand, Japan has also experienced the effects of historical hostility, particularly in the form of censure and condemnation for its actions during World War II from Korea and other nations. As a result, Japan has developed a sense of victimization and defensiveness, which makes it challenging for the nation to face historical wrongs and advance toward reconciliation.

History-based hostility between the two nations has had a major impact on everything from trade and diplomacy to cultural interchange and tourism. The 2015 deal with the issue of comfort women was one of several recent attempts to strengthen ties between the two countries, but there is still a long way to go before a harmonious relationship can be built. To resolve the problems from the past and provide the groundwork for a better future, it will take consistent effort from all parties.

Efforts to reconcile: Diplomacy and cultural exchange

Through diplomatic and cultural exchange, efforts have been undertaken to reunite South Korea and Japan. To address the enduring concerns, diplomatic efforts have included high-level summit talks and consultations between government officials. Due to the intricate nature of the historical hostility between the two countries, these efforts have, nevertheless, frequently yielded contradictory outcomes.

The path of reconciliation has also included major cultural interactions. Numerous cultural activities have been planned to encourage respect for and understanding of other people's cultures. These consist of, among others, academic exchange programs, art shows, and music festivals. These cultural exchanges have aided in closing the gap between the two countries and laying the groundwork for respect and understanding to exist between them.

Additionally, interpersonal interactions have been crucial to the process of reconciliation. NGOs and other groups from the civil society have been working to improve ties between the citizens of the two nations. To foster communication and mutual understanding between the two countries, these groups have been holding joint workshops, seminars, and other events.

Although progress has been made in the reconciliation efforts, there are still many fundamental concerns that need to be resolved. The diplomatic and cultural endeavors, however, have been a positive step in developing a positive connection between South Korea and Japan.

Public opinion in South Korea and Japan about each other

The level of public opinion in South Korea and Japan toward one another is a key determinant of how well bilateral ties are doing. Negative impressions of one another in both countries are a result of past hostility and unresolved problems. Due to Japan's colonialism of the Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945 and the forced labor of Korean citizens during World War II, there is a strong anti-Japanese sentiment in South Korea. In South Korea, the issue of "comfort women," or Korean women who were coerced into prostitution by the Japanese soldiers, has likewise caused controversy and heightened anti-Japanese sentiment[8].

On the other hand, there is a perception in Japan that South Koreans are unwilling to put the past behind them and are too critical of Japan's past deeds. The decision of the South Korean government to strike Japan from its list of reliable commercial partners and the ongoing controversy over the remuneration of Koreans who were compelled to work as forced laborers during World War II have both contributed to this view.

It's crucial to remember that public opinion in either nation is not uniform. There are many in South Korea and Japan who support closer ties and think the two nations should cooperate to confront shared issues like North Korea's nuclear program and China's expanding influence in the area[9].

Ultimately, fostering mutual understanding and respect will require a determined effort by government leaders and civil society organizations in both countries. The shared history and cultural heritage of South Korea and Japan can be highlighted through cultural exchanges, educational initiatives, and collaborative projects.

Can the two governments work together to improve their relationship?

A complex history of colonization and war, as well as historical hostility, have soured relations between South Korea and Japan. However, cooperation between the two governments is essential if the relationship is to develop better.

There have been initiatives to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations in recent years. For instance, in 2018, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean President Moon Jae-in met for the first time in over a year and decided to strive to strengthen their nations' ties.

There are still a lot of obstacles to be overcome, though. The ongoing issues regarding the compensation for Korean women who were coerced into sexual slavery by Japan during World War II are a significant problem. It is now challenging for the two nations to advance because of this issue, which has caused boycotts of Japanese goods in South Korea[10].

Additionally, there are problems with territorial disputes and historical texts that present various interpretations of their shared history.

Despite these difficulties, it is crucial that the two governments continue to strive for a better partnership. This can be accomplished by enhancing economic relationships, conducting cultural exchanges, and using diplomacy. The two nations can only end their long-standing hostility and forge a cordial relationship by working together and understanding one another.

Can the two societies overcome their differences?

History-based hostility has harmed South Korea and Japan's relationship for many years. Tensions between the two nations stem from Japan's 1910–1945 colonial control of Korea, which saw a number of crimes committed against the Korean people by the Japanese government.

Many South Koreans are still deeply affected by the scars of the past, despite efforts by both governments to mend fences. The ongoing debate about "comfort women," Korean women who were coerced into sexual servitude by the Japanese military during World War II, is evidence of this.

Many individuals in both nations, though, see the value of putting these old grudges behind us and forging ahead with a more peaceful relationship. Particularly the younger generations are frequently better at moving past the past and concentrating on the present.

Both nations must participate in frank and open discussion, own past wrongs, and work toward reconciliation if they are to resolve their problems. This will take a lot of time and work, but it is necessary if South Korea and Japan want to build a friendly and productive relationship in the future[11].

Lessons from other countries with similar experiences

There are important lessons to be gained about overcoming historical hostility from other nations who have gone through comparable experiences. For instance, despite having a long history of hostility, Germany and France were able to forge peaceful and successful ties in the years following World War II. This resulted through a process of reconciliation that included admitting wrongs from the past, making amends, and establishing powerful economic and political linkages. Similar to this, South Africa overcame apartheid to become a democracy through a process of truth and reconciliation that included admitting previous wrongdoings and pardoning those who admitted their crimes.

In order to address their shared historical concerns, Japan and South Korea could take inspiration from these cases and implement comparable strategies. This might entail accepting responsibility for past wrongs, compensating victims, and encouraging cooperation and cross-cultural contact. It will take some time, persistence, and a willingness to engage in an open and honest discourse, but it is ultimately possible to forge an amicable and productive partnership between these two significant regional powers. Japan and South Korea may advance toward a more promising and peaceful future by taking lessons from the past.

In conclusion, the ties between South Korea and Japan are complicated and have been tainted by long-standing hostility from the past. Although it might seem like a difficult endeavor, it is not impossible for the two countries to develop a more harmonious relationship. To achieve reconciliation, all parties must consciously choose to accept past wrongs and put forth effort [12].

Recognizing the effects that their acts have had on each other's nations and people is crucial for South Korea and Japan. Addressing subjects like the comfort women debate and the forced labor of Korean workers under Japan's colonial domination of Korea is part of this.

Furthermore, encouraging cultural exchanges through initiatives like linguistic and educational programs could promote a greater understanding and respect for one another's cultures.

It's crucial to remember, though, that the road to a more harmonious relationship won't be easy, and there can be roadblocks along the way. To develop trust and provide the groundwork for a successful relationship, both parties will need to commit over an extended period of time.

Overall, though it may not be simple, putting the past behind South Korea and Japan is a realistic aim that might have a positive impact on both nations and their citizens. As a good friend of both countries, Cambodia is very pleased to see the good relations between Korea and Japan.

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[1] How Japan Took Control of Korea, could be found through the following link: https://www.history.com/news/japan-colonization-korea

[2] Criminology, Sociology and Policing at Hull, could be found through the following link: https://crimsoc.hull.ac.uk/2021/08/17/unrepaired-wrongs-comfort-women/

[3] The Rough State of Japan–South Korea Relations, could be found through the following link: https://www.nbr.org/publication/the-rough-state-of-japan-south-korea-relations-friction-and-disputes-in-the-maritime-domain/

[4] Resolving Tensions Between South Korea and Japan: An Essay Series, could be found through the following link: https://www.usip.org/programs/resolving-tensions-between-south-korea-and-japan-essay-series 

[5] What’s Behind Japan and South Korea’s Latest Attempt to Mend Ties?, could be found through the following link: https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/03/whats-behind-japan-and-south-koreas-latest-attempt-mend-ties

[6] Islands of ire: The South Korea–Japan dispute, could be found through the following link: https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/islands-ire-south-korea-japan-dispute

[7] How Japan Took Control of Korea, could be found through the following link: https://www.history.com/news/japan-colonization-korea

[8] Survey finds 60% of South Koreans oppose Japan wartime labor dispute resolution, could be found through the following link: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/03/11/national/politics-diplomacy/japan-south-korea-wartime-labor-public-opinion-polls/

[9] South Korea and Japan: A milestone meeting of frenemies, could be found through the following link: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-64962733 

[10] Analysis: With Abe’s exit, Seoul seeks to mend Japan ties, could be found through the following link: https://apnews.com/article/shinzo-abe-global-trade-seoul-international-news-south-korea-4e076944751ab7fd9d96b43943291e3b

[11] South Korea, Japan Struggle to Overcome Mistrust While Facing Common Threats, could be found through the following link: https://www.voanews.com/a/south-korea-japan-struggle-to-overcome-mistrust-while-facing-common-threats/6705160.html

13] Mended Ties Between Japan and South Korea Would Boost Regional Security, could be found through the following link: https://www.usip.org/publications/2022/07/mended-ties-between-japan-and-south-korea-would-boost-regional-security

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Dr. Seun Sam is a policy analyst of the Royal Academy of Cambodia. This article is dedicated to the good friends of Cambodia namely Korea and Japan. 

  ថ្ងៃអង្គារ, 04 កក្កដា 2023 ម៉ោង 10:26 AM

Crisis in Cambodian Academics By: Dr. Seun Sam

Cambodia has a long history of academic excellence and a rich cultural legacy. The nation's academic community has, however, been dealing with an unparalleled problem in recent years. With decreasing student enrollment, a dearth of skilled teachers, and significant financial struggles at many universities and colleges, the situation is grim. The quality of education has significantly decreased as a result of this problem, endangering the future of the nation's youth.

Many individuals are concerned about the quality of the educational system in Cambodia today. Many obstacles still exist despite government efforts to raise educational standards. The lack of resources is one of the main issues facing the Cambodian educational system. Many educational institutions are underfunded and lack essential resources like textbooks, computers, and classrooms. This makes it challenging for teachers to provide their students with a high-quality education.

The lack of skilled teachers is another problem. There is a significant turnover rate among teachers in Cambodia because they are frequently underpaid and inadequately qualified. Students aren't getting the education they need to succeed in life because there aren't enough skilled teachers teaching them.

In addition, the central government controls a significant amount of the education system in Cambodia. This has led to a lack of adaptation and flexibility in the system, making it challenging to meet the shifting demands of students and society.

Despite these difficulties, the educational system in Cambodia has made some progress. The government has started a number of programs to raise the standard of education, such as raising teacher pay, constructing new schools, and offering scholarships to kids from underprivileged backgrounds.

The educational system in Cambodia is currently in a mixed situation. Although there are many obstacles to overcome, certain encouraging developments offer optimism for the future. It is possible to raise the standard of instruction and provide Cambodian students the resources they need to be successful in life by addressing the root causes of the educational system's problems and putting sensible remedies in place.

The lack of finance for education in Cambodia is yet another significant problem. The government only devotes a small fraction of its budget to education, which leaves colleges and universities with inadequate funding, and the underpaid professors.

A brain drain has also resulted from the lack of academic independence in Cambodia, with many of the nation's top scholars and researchers leaving for better chances elsewhere. This has exacerbated the academic problem in Cambodia by creating a shortage of qualified teachers and researchers.

It is obvious that a variety of intricate and interconnected elements are at play in the academic crisis in Cambodia. The solution to these problems will include a multifaceted strategy that includes governmental reform, improved educational funding, and a dedication to academic freedom and human rights. Only then will the school system in Cambodia be able to reach its full potential and help the nation advance.

Proposed solutions for the crisis

The current academic crisis in Cambodia has raised concerns throughout the academic world. Policymakers, academic institutions, and other stakeholders must pay immediate attention to the crisis and take immediate action. Here are some suggestions for how to deal with the crisis:

1. Increase money: Increasing money for universities and research institutions is one of the most important remedies to the academic crisis in Cambodia. Increased money may contribute to higher-quality infrastructure, research facilities, and educational programs.

2. Encourage Collaboration: Encouraging collaboration between universities and research institutions can help in sharing resources, knowledge, and expertise. Collaboration can help in improving the quality of research and education in the country.

3. Improve Teacher Training: Improving teacher training is critical to improving the quality of education in Cambodia. Providing teachers with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources can help in improving their teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes.

4. Enhance Curriculum: Enhancing the curriculum to meet the current needs of the job market can help in improving the employability of graduates. The curriculum should be designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge required to succeed in their future careers.

5. Address Corruption: Addressing corruption in the education system is critical to improving the quality of education in Cambodia. Measures should be taken to ensure that corruption is eliminated and that academic institutions are run transparently and efficiently.

By implementing these proposed solutions, the crisis in Cambodian academics can be addressed, and the academic community can work towards rebuilding the education system for a better future.

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Dr. Seun Sam is a policy analyst of the Royal Academy of Cambodia.

  ថ្ងៃពុធ, 28 មិថុនា 2023 ម៉ោង 11:27 AM

China and Cambodia: Rivals or Allies? by: Dr. Seun Sam

China and Cambodia, two countries with intricate geopolitical linkages and rich cultural traditions, have recently gained attention for their expanding economic and political ties. Although China has made significant investments in the infrastructure and economy of Cambodia, some observers are concerned that the country's growing reliance on China will result in a loss of sovereignty and lead to conflicts with its neighbors. This article will look at the connection between China and Cambodia's history, how it stands now, and if the two countries are allies or foes. This article also aims to look at what this might imply for the stability of the area and the economy of Cambodia.

Introduction to Cambodia and China's Connection

The ancient Khmer Empire is the origin of the long-standing link between China and Cambodia. In more recent times, a complex combination of political, economic, and strategic considerations has defined the relationship between the two nations.

China has become Cambodia's biggest economic partner and foreign investor during the previous ten years. The strategic location of Cambodia on China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast infrastructure development project with the goal of connecting China with the rest of Asia, Europe, and Africa, has made this economic alliance possible.

The partnership between Cambodia and China does, however, face certain difficulties. Some Cambodians are worried about Chinese economic dominance and the possibility of exploitation due to their country's growing economic dependence on China. Concerns exist on how Chinese investment may affect Cambodia's ecology and natural resources.

Additionally, Cambodia's close ties to China have caused it to have a tense relationship with other nations in the region, especially the United States and its allies. The human rights record of Cambodia has been attacked, and the country has been charged with being a client state of China.

The relationship between China and Cambodia is intricate and multifaceted overall, with both shared and opposing viewpoints. Anyone interested in the geopolitics of Southeast Asia and the larger Indo-Pacific region must comprehend this relationship.

The Relationship between China and Cambodia in historical background

Century-long and intricate history may be found in the relationship between China and Cambodia. China and Cambodia have long-standing diplomatic ties and a shared cultural and historical background. The Khmer Empire, which ruled over Cambodia in the 13th century, was a major force in Southeast Asia and had close ties to China's Yuan Dynasty. With Cambodia acting as a tributary state to China under the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The turbulent past of Cambodia has affected its connection with China in recent times. China kept funding and investing in initiatives for infrastructure and development in Cambodia over the ensuing decades. China is currently Cambodia's top foreign investor and assistance donor, and the Belt and Road Initiative has strengthened economic connections between the two nations.

The relationship between Cambodia and China has not been without difficulties, though. The international community has recently criticized Cambodia for its close ties to China and alleged disrespect for democratic values and human rights. As a result, there are now a number of countries in the region, especially those with close relations to the United States, that are at odds with Cambodia. Despite these difficulties, the connection between Cambodia and China continues to be intricate and crucial to regional politics and growth.

The current state of Cambodia-China relations

There is a lot of discussion and controversy about the state of relations between China and Cambodia right now. Since the Khmer Rouge era, when China gave the Cambodian government financial and military support, the two countries have enjoyed a close relationship. But in recent years, the two nations' ties have deepened as a result of China's significant economic and infrastructure investments in Cambodia.

Some view this as a positive development, claiming that Chinese investment has assisted in boosting Cambodia's economy and lowering poverty. Others, though, are worried that Chinese influence could erode Cambodia's democracy and sovereignty. Chinese investment has been linked to claims of human rights violations, and some people are concerned that Cambodia may become unduly dependent on China, endangering its long-term political and economic stability.

Despite these reservations, the government of Cambodia has kept a close relationship with China, with Prime Minister Hun Sen openly admiring China's leadership and governmental practices. Some have concluded from this that Cambodia may be enlarging its connection with China at the detriment of its ties to other nations in the region and beyond. Although it is yet unclear how Cambodia-China ties will develop, it is obvious that this topic will continue to be a top concern for experts and policymakers in the years to come.

Cambodia's economic dependence on China

The subject of Cambodia's economic dependency on China has generated a lot of discussion in recent years. The major source of foreign aid and investment for Cambodia is now China, and the two nations have developed strong economic ties. While some contend that this dependence is advantageous, others are worried about the hazards and outcomes that could result.

On the one hand, China's investments and assistance have fueled economic growth in Cambodia. Chinese investment has brought new economic projects and infrastructure to the nation, boosting employment and raising living standards for many Cambodians. Additionally, China has contributed funding to support a range of social and economic initiatives, including those aimed at eradicating poverty and improving healthcare and education. These initiatives have improved access to essential services and decreased poverty in Cambodia.

There are worries that Cambodia's long-term economic reliance on China may have adverse effects on the country. Chinese investments, according to critics, frequently have conditions attached, such as political sway or ownership of vital assets. There are also worries about how some of China's infrastructure projects may affect the environment, which have come under fire for being unsustainable and harmful to natural resources.

In addition, others fear that Cambodia's reliance on China for its economic needs may leave it open to political or economic pressure from Beijing. Some worry that Cambodia could end up being used as a pawn in bigger geopolitical conflicts between China and other nations, like the United States, as China's influence in the region develops.

Overall, despite certain advantages, Cambodia's economic dependency on China is a complex subject with unknown risks and repercussions. It will be crucial to carefully assess the potential effects as Cambodia navigates its relationship with China and to try to make sure that its economic growth is sustainable and advantageous for all Cambodians.

China's strategic interests in Cambodia

China has a wide range of strategic interests in Cambodia. China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a significant infrastructure and investment initiative intended to connect China with Asia, Europe, and Africa, counts Cambodia as a vital participant. China has made significant investments in the construction of roads, bridges, trains, and ports in Cambodia in order to facilitate the movement of people and products due to the country's advantageous location along the Mekong River.

The greatest investor in Cambodia is likewise China, which contributes money to a variety of development initiatives in the nation, including the construction of hydropower dams, special economic zones, and housing constructions. The energy, telecommunications, and construction industries of Cambodia are heavily populated by Chinese businesses. China is also Cambodia's greatest commercial partner, making up roughly a third of all commerce.

China views Cambodia as a crucial ally in its ambitions to strengthen its influence in Southeast Asia and balance the influence of the United States and other regional nations, in addition to its economic objectives. In international debates involving concerns like democracy and human rights, Cambodia frequently sides with China and has been a vociferous backer of China's territorial claims in the South China Sea.

In general, China's strategic interests in Cambodia are intricate and multifaceted, reflecting both political and economic factors. While China's investments and presence in Cambodia have benefited both nations significantly, they have also sparked worries about how Chinese influence can threaten Cambodia's independence and sovereignty.

The balancing act Cambodia must do with China and other regional powers

Cambodia is always a small nation with a rich past. The nation has seen several changes in recent years as a result of the fast growth of its economy and the influx of foreign capital. Due to its advantageous geographic position, the nation is now a significant participant in the region and has successfully used this advantage to maintain a delicate balance with China and other regional powers.

On the one hand, Cambodia has been a steadfast ally of China, with Chinese investments contributing significantly to the growth of the nation's economy. China has made significant infrastructure investments in the nation and has been a significant source of financial support for the government of Cambodia.

However, Cambodia has also taken care to avoid offending other regional superpowers like the US and Japan. By maintaining a policy of neutrality and non-alignment, the nation has been able to carefully maintain a balance between its relations with China and those with other regional powers.

The recent rise in hostilities between China and other regional nations has made things difficult for Cambodia. It desires to keep good relations with China but also does not want to be viewed as a pawn in a bigger geopolitical game. As a result, Cambodia has taken care to walk a fine line, avoiding taking sides and upholding its neutrality stance.

Overall, Cambodia must carefully navigate its delicate balancing act with China and other regional countries in the years to come. However, the nation is positioned to play a more significant role in the region because to its advantageous location and expanding economy.

Geopolitical Implications of Cambodia-China Ties

China has emerged as Cambodia's major foreign donor and investor in recent years, strengthening the country's connection with China. Cambodia has demonstrated its support for Chinese regional policies and initiatives, such as the disputes over the South China Sea. This has caused several of Cambodia's neighbors and other nations in the region to express concern as they worry that China's expanding influence could threaten regional stability.

Some have also questioned whether Cambodia is turning into a pawn in China's efforts to increase its influence in Southeast Asia in light of the improving ties between the two countries. It is important to note, though, that Cambodia has also attempted to strike a balance in its interactions with other superpowers like Japan, the US, and India.

How other nations in the region react will have a significant influence on how Cambodia-China relations affect regional geopolitics. If they believe that Cambodia is too strongly allied with China, they can try to counteract this by fostering closer ties with other big nations.

Alternatively, if they consider Cambodia as a possible friend, they might work to strengthen their own ties with it in an effort to balance off China's influence. In the end, Southeast Asia's geopolitical landscape is intricate and ever-changing, and Cambodia's relationship with China is but one component of it.

The role of the United States in relations between China and Cambodia

Over the years, the United States has had a big impact on relations between Cambodia and China. The US had historically played a significant role in Cambodian politics, supporting and aiding it during the Vietnam War. But as the Khmer Rouge regime fell, the US started to scale back its presence in Cambodia, leaving a political vacuum that China was more than happy to fill.

Since then, ties between the US and Cambodia have remained fairly tense, particularly under the current administration of Cambodia and the US. Prime Minister Hun Sen has accused the US of interfering in Cambodian affairs, the US has criticized Hun Sen's government for its record on human rights and its crackdown on opposition parties.

China, on the other hand, has given Hun Sen's administration more backing and made significant investments in Cambodia's economy and infrastructure. Some people are now worried that China's influence in the region is expanding and that Cambodia is becoming too dependent on it.

Despite this, the US continues to play a significant role in the region and has continued to support Cambodia with aid, albeit at a lower level. It remains to be seen if the US can continue to exert influence in Cambodia while curbing China's expanding dominance in the area.

Conflict between China and Cambodia could happen

There are worries about the possibility of confrontation between China and Cambodia as their connection continues to grow. China has made significant investments in Cambodia's economy and infrastructure, which have benefited the nation greatly. Some academics are concerned that Cambodia's increasing reliance on China may result in the loss of its sovereignty and independence.

China's influence over Cambodia's political system is one area of concern. The Cambodian People's Party, which is currently in power, has strong relations to China and has received a lot of backing from Beijing over the years. Criticisms of the Cambodian government's growing authoritarianism and lack of accountability to its people have resulted from this.

China's persistent territorial disputes in the South China Sea could also lead to violence. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which includes Cambodia's neighbors, has appealed for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, although Cambodia has generally taken the side of China on this issue.

It's crucial to remember that Cambodia and China have a long history of diplomatic and economic cooperation despite these worries. Strong relationships benefit both nations greatly, and there are numerous areas where cooperation is possible. Furthermore, Cambodia has demonstrated a readiness to balance its connections with China by pursuing tighter ties with nations like Japan and India.

In conclusion, it's critical to take a balanced approach to the situation even though there are hazards connected to Cambodia's close ties to China. There are advantages and disadvantages in every relationship, and it is the responsibility of leaders on both sides to manage the complicated dynamics and keep the partnership moving in the right direction.

Conclusion and the Future of relations between Cambodia and China

In conclusion, there is a complicated connection between China and Cambodia that is both an ally and a foe. China provides economic assistance and investment to Cambodia, as well as backing on the global stage, notably in relation to the South China Sea dispute. Concerns concerning Cambodia's sovereignty and its capacity to pursue a separate foreign policy have arisen as a result of the nation's excessive reliance on China.

Recent events suggest that the partnership will endure, such as Cambodia's support of China's territorial ambitions and rising Chinese investment. The younger generation in particular is showing symptoms of increased hostility against Chinese influence, which may cause the nation's foreign policy to change in the future.

The balance of power in the region, the resolution of the South China Sea issue, and the shifting opinions of the Cambodian populace will all likely have an impact on how Cambodia and China interact in the future. The leaders of Cambodia will have to carefully strike a balance between their relations with China and their determination to uphold their country's sovereignty and independence, all the while taking the concerns of the Cambodian populace into account. Relations between Cambodia and China will ultimately be determined by the choices taken by their respective governments as well as their capacity to cooperate to achieve their shared objectives.

In conclusion, it should be noted that China and Cambodia have a complicated relationship that has developed over time. Although China has historically provided economic and military support to Cambodia, there are growing worries about the possible effects of China's growing influence in the region. It will be intriguing to see how both nations' strategic and economic objectives converge or diverge in the future as they work to navigate their relationship.

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Dr. Seun Sam is a policy analyst at the Royal Academy of Cambodia. All views in this article are his own. 

  ថ្ងៃសៅរ៍, 24 មិថុនា 2023 ម៉ោង 09:39 AM

រាជបណ្ឌិត្យសភាកម្ពុជា ទទួលជំនួបជាមួយក្រុមហ៊ុន EMCAST កូរ៉េ ដើម្បីពិភាក្សាស្វែងរកឱកាសសហការបង្កើតមជ្ឈមណ្ឌលបណ្ដុះបណ្ដាលបច្ចេកវិទ្យា AI សម្រាប់ជាប្រយោជន៍ជំនួយដល់ការងារពលរដ្ឋខ្មែរ

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  ថ្ងៃព្រហស្បតិ៍, 22 មិថុនា 2023 ម៉ោង 06:20 PM

CAMBODIA- VIETNAM DYNAMICS RELATIONS By: UCH Leang, Scholar from Department of Asian, African and Middle East studies of International Relations Institute of Cambodia of the Royal Academy of Cambodia.

Cambodia and China have expanded strategic cooperation and upgraded relations to a “diamond cooperation framework” in six priority areas: political cooperation, production capacity and quality, agriculture, energy, security, and people-to people exchanges. Meanwhile, In Washington, closer ties with Southeast Asian countries are seen as crucial in counterbalancing Beijing’s growing footprint in the region. After 10 years of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership, Vietnam has a booming economy and the Biden administration has expanded its leverage over the Vietnam’s strategic location between China, ASEAN and the South China Sea.

China’s rising geopolitical influence has spurred the United States to relaunch great power competition for control over international order. Currently, China is the second largest economy in the world and will surpass the US by 2030. China’s economic, technological, and military power has also unsettled US allies. China’s assertive posture in the South and East China Seas and its integration of Eurasia via the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have confirmed US fears. Significantly, by PPP measure China’s economy surpassed the US in 2014 and will become the largest world’s economy in GDP by 2030.

China’s growth in technology, innovation, and high-tech manufacturing over the last two decades has been spectacular. Xi Jinping’s assertion that “time and situation” favor China is a clear indication of its shift from Deng’s strategy of “lie low and bide your time” to a more assertive strategy of China claiming its rightful place. His clear articulation of timelines for the realization of the ‘Chinese Dream’ is significant. By 2049, China aims to achieve the number one world power status with a world-class military.

China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea could lead to conflicts with smaller powers and seek to dilute the power and influence of the US through asymmetric strategies. On the other hand, the US has revived its alliance strategies to combine with India, Japan, and Australia to create the Quad strategy to blunt China’s increasing influence in the Indo-Pacific.

The US has continued to warn of potential economic risks posed by BRI, focusing on “debt-trap” narratives to increase anxiety in small states. While, the Biden Administration, G-7 and EU have announced their intention to compete with the BRI infrastructure strategy, the Build Back better and Global gateway initiatives have failed to materialise. As their domestic infrastructure dilapidates, neither the US or EU possess sufficient surplus capital to fund international infrastructure development. US and EU announcements have served only to confirm the disconnect between strategy and capacity to counter China.

With the increase in its economic and military power, China has taken an increasingly assertive position for reforms in multilateral institutions to augment the representation and voice of developing countries. China has also played a leading role in creating alternative development finance institutions such as the AIIB and BRICS New Development Bank (NDB). These are seen as efforts to reduce the influence of US-dominated IMF and World Bank. China is also emphatic that multi-polar world order is an absolute necessity and is focused on reducing American power and influence in global governance. Xi Jinping declared that China needs to lead “the reform of the global governance system with fairness and justice”.

The US has followed a strategy of forward-deployment to maintain the global architecture it has helped create post-1945. With nearly 800 overseas bases across the world, it dominates the Asia-Pacific and Western Eurasia. With a string of significant bases in the Middle East and the Gulf countries and Diego Garcia in the Indian ocean, the US dominates the Indian Ocean to project influence into Eastern Africa, the southern side of Asia, and the southern side of Eurasia. What is less publicised is that the US has nearly 400 bases surrounding China in a dangerously aggressive containment strategy. The 2019 revival of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) among the US, India, Japan, and Australia is clearly focused on containing China.

However, the successful conclusion of the ASEAN-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in November 2020, which includes US allies Japan and Australia, is testimony to the trade dynamism between ASEAN and China, which are each others largest trade partners. The essence of this strategic competition is focused on the US’s attempts to decouple from China to deny it easy access to critical technologies and markets. On the other hand, through the BRI, China is working to extend influence across Eurasia and the Asia-Pacific and foster a new global economic order.

Cambodia-China’s enhanced co-operation and friendship culminated in the establishment of “Cambodia-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation” on December 13, 2010. Until today, Cambodia and China relations reach to “Diamond” friendship and have taken root in the two countries, and from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation, free trade agreement (FTA), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has yielded fruitful results, bringing huge benefits to the people. The two countries have joined hands to fight the pandemic, and the Chinese vaccines have effectively helped Cambodia to protect the people's lives and health, accelerate economic recovery and restore normalcy to social life. Cambodia hopes that the two sides will further advance the building of a Cambodia-China community with a shared future, foster greater synergy between development strategies, and strengthen cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, infrastructure, minerals, energy, agriculture and defense.

Cambodia is firmly committed to the “one-China principle and holds that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory”. Cambodia resolutely opposes any words and deeds that infringe on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will continue to firmly support China in safeguarding its core interests, and stand firm together with the over 1.4 billion Chinese people.

Cambodia-U.S. Relations

Unlike Cambodia-China relations, Cambodia’s domestic political issues are leveraged by the U.S. to gain greater influence over Cambodia. The U.S. has interfered in Cambodia’s internal affairs by providing support to the opposition and encouraging local and international civil society groups, as well as some media outlets, to frame a “negative” perception of Cambodia, which tarnishes the Kingdom’s image on the international stage.

US officials have voiced alarm for more than three years now over the China- backed refurbishment of Ream Naval Base, located outside Cambodia’s main port city of Sihanoukville. The United States also imposed the sanctions on senior officials of Cambodia, Chinese investors and companies in Cambodia over alleged systemic corruption, transnational organised crime and human rights abuses.

Vietnam-U.S. Relations

From mortal enemy to “strategic partnership.” The U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership of the past decade has helped create booming economic growth. Vietnam’s strategic location between China, ASEAN and the South China Sea are fundamental to Washington’s efforts to leverage Southeast Asia in its counterbalancing strategy to arrest Beijing’s growing regional gravity.

U.S.-Vietnam relations have grown rapidly since diplomatic normalisation was achieved in 1995 - an expansion seen in the establishment of a “comprehensive partnership” in 2013, the transfer of two U.S. Coast Guard cutters to Hanoi in 2017, and port visits by U.S. aircraft carriers in 2018 and 2020.

Bilateral trade has grown two-hundredfold since normalisation, and annual U.S. investment in Vietnam has reached US$2.8 billion. “Vietnam enjoys a very high trade surplus with the U.S., totalling more than US$116 billion last year, and receives U.S. assistance in a wide range of domains, including defense and security, while managing to keep the rapprochement at a pace it is comfortable with”.

Vietnam-China Relations

Despite Vietnam’s complex ties with China, the "four No's" policy is both understood and appreciated: Vietnam advocates not joining a military alliance; non-alignment against another country; foreign countries are not allowed to set up military bases in Vietnam or use Vietnam's territory to fight against other countries; it rejects the use of force or the threat with force in international relations. These reflect Vietnam's political wisdom to a certain extent, the "four No's" have laid the foundation for the development of China-Vietnam relations toward the "four goods." In recent years, China and Vietnam have adhered to the policy of long-term stability, forward-thinking, good-neighborliness and comprehensive cooperation, and the spirit of being good neighbors, friends, comrades and partners. The bilateral friendship has reached a new stage of comprehensive strategic partnership and the recent meeting between the countries two leaders further consolidates China-Vietnam amity.

China and Vietnam are neighbors and share similar cultures. Both are have fast developing societies and economies. After the CPCs 20th National Congress, Chinese modernisation and construction initiatives will create more development opportunities and dividends for neighbouring countries including Vietnam.

Cambodia-Vietnam Relations

Cambodia and Vietnam share both a joint border of more than 1,270 kms and the all important Mekong River. Relations between the two countries are bound by historical, geographical, and political ties. The two nations established official diplomatic relations on June 24, 1967.

The bilateral relationship between Cambodia and Vietnam can be described as a love-hate relationship. The two nations have a long history of interaction, cooperation, and hostility as close neighbours and have been both friends and adversaries.

Based on historical, geographical, and political factors, strengthening relations and cooperation between the two countries is indispensable. Thus, the two countries continue to live together in peace, with mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, resolve issues peacefully and cooperate in all areas of mutual benefit that befits their adopted motto of “good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, and comprehensive, sustainable and long-term cooperation”. The motto signifies the sincere wishes of both countries to continue to broaden and deepen all levels of cooperation and amity.

Conclusion

China-U.S. rivalry has meant that small and middle states like Cambodia and Vietnam were incapable to resist the impact of great power competition. To expand their regional influence, the great powers pressured the small states, either directly or indirectly, through their allies, organisations and institutions.

Both China and the U.S. have played important roles in promoting Cambodia and Vietnam development. Therefore, both countries seek beneficial paths to balance relations between the two superpowers while maximissing their political, economic and diplomatic initiatives by not give prominence to one power over another. Moreover, both Cambodia and Vietnam do not seek to overshadow other countries in the region or the world, but seek to maintain the balance of friendship, peace, security, stability, national sovereignty and development.

Despite very small and medium sized populations, Cambodia and Vietnam’s geographical location and regional role, particularly its membership in ASEAN, are strategically important to China and the U.S.. Thus, the foreign policy enshrined in Article 53 of the 1993 Constitution of Cambodia, is a policy of permanent neutrality and non-alignment and peaceful co-existence with its neighbours and all other countries around the world. The "four No's" policy of Vietnam and ASEAN Centrality not only bind Cambodia and Vietnam good relations, but ensure, within the context of geostrategic rivalry, that both countries can continue their growth and development with harmony and prosperity.

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RAC Media

  ថ្ងៃអង្គារ, 20 មិថុនា 2023 ម៉ោង 12:04 PM