Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
International Cooperation issued a statement expressing its disappointment over
the allegations made by two U.S. political figures which impacts Cambodia.
“The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs and International Cooperation is disappointed by the
politically-motivated allegations made on September 15, 2020 by two U.S.
political figures, namely Congressman Alan Lowenthal and Assistant Secretary of
State Robert A. Destro, as to the nature of the Cambodian authority’s measures
to ensure peace, social order and public health in the country,” it said.
“The Spokesperson notes with deep regrets that
their assessments are inaccurate and did not take into account the factual and
legal aspects of the issue at hand. Cambodia cherishes the freedom of
expression, association and peaceful assembly as guaranteed under the
Constitution. However, the exercise of such rights and freedom shall be in
accordance with the law. Freedom of expression does not equate to freedom to
spread indiscriminate hatred, racism and violence,” it continued.
All NGOs, including human rights defenders and
youth groups, are free to carry out their activities to partake in the national
development as long as they remain within the confine of the laws, the
statement underlined.
“The Spokesperson notes a certain degree of
double standard displayed by the two personalities when on the one hand they
call for an extrajudicial release of certain particular groups, in contrary to
the exercise of due process by the judiciary, and on the other hand they call
for the respect of the rule of law,” it said.
Cambodia remains committed to build better
relationship with the U.S. and highly appreciates the latter’s support for the
stability, peace and development of the country, reconfirmed the statement. C.
Nika