Cambodian lawmaker reaffirms commitment to international law in heritage protection

PHNOM PENH, 13 February 2026 (KPT) – A senior Cambodian lawmaker has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international law and multilateral mechanisms in safeguarding cultural heritage.

Sous Yara, chairman of the National Assembly’s Commission on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Information, made the remarks during talks with Flavio Bonetti, UNESCO’s new representative to Cambodia.

Sous Yara said Cambodia viewed international law and multilateral cooperation as key diplomatic tools in protecting cultural assets, particularly given past disputes with neighbouring countries over heritage sites.

He described heritage as a “bridge of peace,” stressing that preservation should foster mutual understanding rather than competition.

Looking ahead to 2026, which marks the 75th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership of UNESCO, he said the milestone would highlight preservation achievements and reaffirm Cambodia’s legal ownership of registered sites.

He also called for support in promoting Asia–Europe digital connectivity through a proposed “Digital Museum” initiative to share Khmer culture more widely.

Through the ASEAN Inter Parliamentary Assembly, he urged stronger cultural cooperation in the Mekong region to help prevent disputes.

Bonetti welcomed Cambodia’s commitment and said UNESCO would continue to provide technical assistance in cultural preservation and information policy.