Bangkok: Sabida awaits approval to survey archaeological sites affected by the Thai-Cambodian conflict. Sabida reiterated that the historical site damaged in the Thai-Cambodian conflict can be repaired, pending approval for an inspection. He affirmed that statements have been sent through all channels, pointing out that Cambodia uses the temple as a military base, thus requiring Thailand to exercise its right to defend itself and its sovereignty.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture, gave an interview regarding the restoration of historical sites damaged by clashes between Thai and Cambodian soldiers. She affirmed that Thailand did not attack, but acted in self-defense according to international standards and national security principles.
Ms. Sabida stated that the cause of the destruction of the historical sites is initially unknown, and it is unclear whether the destruction occurred before the clashes. As everyone knows, these historical sites were only recently reclaimed by Thailand. She added that Thailand must prove that since these sites are within its sovereign territory, a budget must be planned for restoration and repair. She affirmed that Thailand is not using the historical sites as bunkers or for military purposes, but rather to maintain them as historical sites requiring restoration and repair.
Regarding the estimated timeframe for restoring the historical site, Ms. Sabida stated that initially, the Fine Arts Department has not been able to access the area. However, she added that the repair techniques are not complex, and the Fine Arts Department has sufficient capabilities for the restoration, which is expected to take a short time.
When asked by reporters about the presence of landmines in the area surrounding the archaeological site and how security would be provided for officials entering to inspect, Ms. Sabida stated that they must wait for confirmation from the security forces before they can enter to survey and carry out restoration work. She emphasized that the area must be cleared and the process must be peaceful before any survey can be conducted.
Regarding whether to use existing remains for restoration or incorporate new materials, Ms. Sabida stated that there are now new repair techniques available, while maintaining the original design. She emphasized that studies have already been completed, but stressed that a thorough survey will definitely be conducted before any restoration work begins.
Regarding the Cambodian military's use of the temple as an operational base, and the subsequent clashes where Cambodia accused Thailand of destroying historical sites, Ms. Sabida stated that Thailand must adhere to international principles and consider all the facts before taking any action. She noted that currently, Thailand seems to be focusing on the symptoms rather than the root cause of the destruction of the historical sites, which Cambodia used for military purposes, forcing Thailand to defend itself and protect its sovereignty.
Regarding whether she would be filing protest letters through every channel, Ms. Sabida said that she would use every platform to respond, such as the recent UNESCO forum, and would respond with reason and logic through statements.