Samdech Techo Hun Sen Responds to Overseas Opposition Critics over His Recent Defence Policy Remarks

(Battambang): Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of Cambodia, responded to criticism from overseas opposition figures regarding his recent remarks on Cambodia’s past approach to military development, stating that those who do not fully understand his leadership should continue learning. He spoke on Thursday (Jun. 11) during his visit to the DSS military uniform manufacturing factory in Battambang Province. “I would like to take this opportunity to address certain opposition figures living abroad,” he stated. “After I publicly acknowledged shortcomings in preparedness, some immediately attacked me. However, they understand far too little about Hun Sen. If they do not yet fully understand Hun Sen, they should continue learning. If one lifetime is insufficient, they may continue learning in the next.” Samdech Techo Hun Sen noted that when the Royal Government previously invested in military vehicles and defence equipment, the same opposition groups criticized the spending as unnecessary and wasteful. He argued that such investments were essential to strengthening the readiness and operational capacity of Cambodia’s armed forces in protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Clarifying his earlier comments on military development, Samdech Techo explained that previous government priorities had focused heavily on national development and socio-economic progress. Nevertheless, he stressed that strengthening national defence remains a critical responsibility of the state. On the occasion, Samdech Techo Hun Sen also urged critics to avoid opposing government policies without careful consideration and encouraged them to observe the continued development of Cambodia’s defence sector and its growing capabilities.=FRESH NEWS