Cambodia seeks to protect and preserve cultural artifacts
10 October 2022
According to the Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona, Cambodia is dedicated to cooperating closely with other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members and international partners to combat the illegal trafficking of cultural artifacts.
Sackona stated that by halting the illegal trafficking in cultural property and developing a responsible art market, Cambodia and ASEAN recognise the urgent need to protect Southeast Asia's shared legacy.
She emphasised that over the past few years, Cambodia and the ASEAN countries have made significant progress in safeguarding their rich cultural heritage from losses brought on by organised looting and theft, as well as tirelessly fostering responsible cultural exchanges with other governments, museums, and the private sector.
However, there are still many stolen cultural artefacts on the international art market. As a result, Cambodia is committed to working with other ASEAN nations and other international partners to combat this and advance the protection of cultural property.
The minister stated that Cambodia will make every effort to preserve and promote ASEAN identity as well as uphold and improve peace, security, and stability in Southeast Asia while serving as the ASEAN chair for 2022.
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
