Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 8 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet posed a question to those who oppose economic development and energy security, asking whether pursuing these goals could be considered treason.

This inquiry by Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet was made following criticisms from ill-intended individuals who opposed Cambodia's progress, particularly after Cambodia and Thailand agreed to extract oil from overlapping claims area for mutual economic benefits and energy security.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Feb. 8) at the annual meeting of the Ministry of Labour at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.

In addition, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet urged the need to separate economic interests from sovereignty concerns in border negotiations. Samdech Thipadei underlined that border negotiations related to water must continue under the guidance of the same technical team.

Please be informed that Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to develop oil resources in the Overlapping Claims Area (OCA) to mutually benefit from new oil sources, aiming to mitigate the impact of fluctuations in oil and energy prices after more than 20 years of negotiations.

The OCA covers more than 26,000 square kilometers, which is estimated to contain millions of barrels of oil and gas reserves beneath the seabed.
=FRESH NEWS