Khmer New Year celebrations highlight Cambodia’s sovereignty and honour frontline defenders

PHNOM PENH, April 2, 2026 (KPT) – The government marked this year’s Khmer New Year by reaffirming its commitment to national sovereignty and paying tribute to soldiers and communities on the front lines, officials said Thursday, framing the holiday as both cultural celebration and political statement.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said the Royal Government and national leadership “never forget their paramount duty to protect the sovereignty of the land and its people,” even during festive periods.

He stressed that diplomatic efforts continue across ministries and agencies to strengthen partnerships, resolve border issues peacefully and uphold Cambodia’s stance against any changes imposed by force.

Prime Minister Hun Manet had earlier urged citizens to use the New Year to promote national traditions while honouring soldiers and visiting refugee communities. Bona said the initiative underscored both Cambodia’s cultural heritage and the bravery of those defending its borders.

The spokesman added that the government also sought to counter what it described as misleading claims from opposition groups abroad, noting that New Year activities reinforced solidarity between frontline defenders and communities.

He described the celebrations as symbolising an “unbreakable connection” within the Cambodian family, binding citizens and soldiers together in times of hardship.

The events reflected a broader effort to link cultural heritage with national unity, positioning the New Year as a moment of gratitude, resilience and reaffirmation of Cambodia’s sovereignty.