Foreign Ministry fears border talks derailment
The army has deployed a battalion of troops backed by heavy weapons near Preah Vihear temple in Si Sa Ket province in case of further clashes with Cambodian soldiers.
Army chief Anupong Paojinda had ordered the Lop Buri-based artillery to send the battalion of troops with 12 large artillery weapons to Pha Mor E-Daeng Cliff national park, a source said yesterday.
Gen Anupong also ordered a company of special warfare troops to guard the border area in the northeastern province with a battalion of infantrymen as reinforcements. There are now 3,000 infantrymen securing the border.
The source said the additional troops and weapons were not sent to provoke clashes with Cambodian troops but were there as back-up. Thailand had a clear policy not to use force to solve border disputes with Cambodia.
The wrangling over the historic temple ruins and recent strong reaction from Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen had sparked speculation of more clashes between the two countries.
The army commander will today fly to the border area in Si Sa Ket, the source said.
The Foreign Ministry has expressed concern that Thailand's objection to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation's listing of Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage Site last year could have a negative impact on border talks.
Vasin Teeravechyan, head of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission, said Thailand's position could obstruct border negotiations, including the 4.6 square kilometre area claimed by the two countries close to the temple.
The commission will wait for a response from the World Heritage Committee on the Thai position in Seville and the outcome of talks between Cambodian officials and Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban in Phnom Penh this week. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suwit Khunkitti has travelled to the Spanish city for talks with the WHC.
If the talks in Seville and Phnom Penh do not go smoothly, it could disrupt the collaboration pledged by the Thai and Cambodian prime ministers, Abhisit Vejjajiva and Hun Sen, during Mr Abhisit's recent visit to Cambodia on June 12.
The Thai World Heritage Committee last week informed the Thai cabinet about its decision to oppose the registration of the ancient Hindu temple.
It said last year's listing had violated the registration process and increased conflicts along the Thai-Cambodian border instead of promoting cultural conservation and tourism between the peoples of both countries.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
PM Abhisit: Deputy PM Suthep to meet Cambodian PM Hun Sen next week
BANGKOK, June 20 (TNA) - Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said Saturday that he will send Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thuagsuban to Cambodia next week, in an attempt to clarify Thailand's objection to the Preah Vihear listing to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The Thai reaction came as the Khmer prime minister expressed "deep regret" after Thailand announced intentions to ask the World Heritage Committee meeting in Seville, Spain, next week to review its decision last year to register Cambodia’s unilateral listing of the Hindu temple. Mr. Hun Sen said that the issue was not raised when Mr. Abhisit met him in Phnom Penh last week. The Thai premier however believed that after Mr. Suthep meets Hun Sen in Cambodia, his Cambodian counterpart will understand Thailand's stance.
“I haven't talked to him (Premier Hun Sen) yet, nor the Cambodian ambassador in Thailand, but I believe that this will not worsen the situation and we will discuss to clarify the matter, the Thai premier said. Deputy Prime Minister Suthep will also discuss the Thai-Cambodian demarcation of overlapping sea areas during his visit in Phnom Penh. (TNA)
“I haven't talked to him (Premier Hun Sen) yet, nor the Cambodian ambassador in Thailand, but I believe that this will not worsen the situation and we will discuss to clarify the matter, the Thai premier said. Deputy Prime Minister Suthep will also discuss the Thai-Cambodian demarcation of overlapping sea areas during his visit in Phnom Penh. (TNA)
Deputy PM gets Hun Sen task
Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban is to explain Thailand's stance against the unilateral listing of the Preah Vihear temple to Cambodian Premier Hun Sen.
Yesterday's decision by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva comes after Hun Sen showed regret over the Thai move to reiterate its opposition to the decision by the World Heritage Committee (WHC) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) last year on approving the Cambodian application for listing.
Mr Abhisit said he and the Cambodian prime minister had not been in contact since the Thai government decided to make its move on the issue in a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
Mr Abhisit did not raise the issue in talks with Hun Sen during his visit to Phnom Penh on June 12.
Related story: Cambodia lashes out
The premier was optimistic that the issue would not lead to a new military conflict between the two countries as efforts were being made to improve bilateral understanding.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suwit Khunkitti left for Spain on Thursday leading Thai officials to talks with the WHC and Unesco in Seville, where the committee will start its meeting tomorrow.
He is scheduled to meet with committee chairwoman Maria Jesus San Segundo of Spain prior to its annual meeting, according to Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya.
Mr Suwit would raise Thailand's objection to the unilateral listing of the ancient Hindu temple, he added.
The key message to deliver to the committee would be that Unesco's approval of the listing is not fair to Thailand, said Mr Kasit.
"This is a matter between Thailand and the World Heritage Committee and Unesco, not between Thailand and Cambodia," he said, echoing Mr Suthep's statement made on Friday.
Preah Vihear, which is called Phra Viharn in Thai, was granted to Cambodia in a 1962 International Court of Justice ruling. Thailand and Cambodia claim the land around the temple area.
In the Seville meeting which runs until June 30, the committee will consider requests for the inscription of new sites on Unesco's World Heritage List and examine the state of conservation of sites already on the list.
Thailand is an observer to the meeting of the 21-member WHC.
Yesterday's decision by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva comes after Hun Sen showed regret over the Thai move to reiterate its opposition to the decision by the World Heritage Committee (WHC) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) last year on approving the Cambodian application for listing.
Mr Abhisit said he and the Cambodian prime minister had not been in contact since the Thai government decided to make its move on the issue in a cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
Mr Abhisit did not raise the issue in talks with Hun Sen during his visit to Phnom Penh on June 12.
Related story: Cambodia lashes out
The premier was optimistic that the issue would not lead to a new military conflict between the two countries as efforts were being made to improve bilateral understanding.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suwit Khunkitti left for Spain on Thursday leading Thai officials to talks with the WHC and Unesco in Seville, where the committee will start its meeting tomorrow.
He is scheduled to meet with committee chairwoman Maria Jesus San Segundo of Spain prior to its annual meeting, according to Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya.
Mr Suwit would raise Thailand's objection to the unilateral listing of the ancient Hindu temple, he added.
The key message to deliver to the committee would be that Unesco's approval of the listing is not fair to Thailand, said Mr Kasit.
"This is a matter between Thailand and the World Heritage Committee and Unesco, not between Thailand and Cambodia," he said, echoing Mr Suthep's statement made on Friday.
Preah Vihear, which is called Phra Viharn in Thai, was granted to Cambodia in a 1962 International Court of Justice ruling. Thailand and Cambodia claim the land around the temple area.
In the Seville meeting which runs until June 30, the committee will consider requests for the inscription of new sites on Unesco's World Heritage List and examine the state of conservation of sites already on the list.
Thailand is an observer to the meeting of the 21-member WHC.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Mu Sochua-Hun Sen: prime Minister portrays himself as victim, NGOs condemn his threats
In a speech he gave on Wednesday April 29th in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s prime Minister presented himself as a victim in the case pitting him against Mu Sochua, the Sam Rainsy Party MP, who lodged a complaint against him on grounds of defamation and insults. Hun Sen particularly reminded his opponent that having her parliamentary immunity lifted would be easy, since a majority of MPs are affiliated to the Cambodian People’s Party and therefore agree with the cause of the head of the executive power. Several organisations from the Cambodian civil society reacted strongly and condemned pressure and threats coming from the ruling power against the opposition.
“I am a simple victim and only wish to defend myself before the Law and find justice”, the Cambodian prime Minister declared loud and clear before an audience composed of brand new graduates. Hun Sen said he did “not despise any woman at all” and said he did not attack Mu Sochua directly. The words he said in Kampot at the beginning of April about a woman behaving in a “provocative way”, who “lunged towards a man to kiss him, so much so that the buttons [of her blouse] popped out”, were not about the SRP MP at all, he said… The prime Minister insisted on justifying the fact that he filed a lawsuit in turn, against the opposition MP. “On Thursday [April 23], she held a press conference [on that case]. Therefore, I have enough evidence. I signed on Friday [April 24] a complaint [against her] for defamation before the start of the judicial proceedings [launched by Mu Sochua against Hun Sen]”, he declared, adding that his complaint was also aimed at Mu Sochua’s lawyer, Kong Sam Onn, who was with his client at her press conference. The prime Minister is asking each of the concerned persons for a compensation of ten million riels (2,500 USD). He announced he would give the money to charity in favour of orphans.Hun Sen also said that if justice asked for the suspension of his own parliamentary immunity, he would be ready to accept it, and pointed out that such a procedure against him had few chances of succeeding. “I do not believe that MPs for the Cambodian People’s Party [CPP, going strong with 90 seats out of 123 in the National Assembly] will vote, by a show of hands, the suspension of my immunity. Like for Lok Chumteav Men Sam On [deputy prime Minister, CPP], they will not do it”, Hun Sen bet with confidence. However, Cambodia’s “strongman” did not fail to mention that if justice issued a similar request against Mu Sochua, having it approved would be easy, since the votes of almost two thirds are already secured.Several Cambodian organisations for the defence of Human rights and the observation of political life reacted strongly, even before this very speech given by the head of government, to the threat to lift the Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) deputy’s parliamentary immunity.“To issue arbitrary threats on the suspension of Mu Sochua’s parliamentary immunity without any evidence she may have committed any crime is a flagrant act of intimidation against an opposition MP”, president of the Cambodian Centre for Human Rights (CCHR) Ou Virak said in a communiqué dated April 29th and co-signed by nine local organisations. “This clearly aims at reducing her to silence and deterring her from claiming her legitimate right to file a lawsuit for defamation.”For Kek Galabru, the president of the NGO for the defence of Human rights in Cambodia LICADHO, this “threat against Mu Sochua is yet another example of the dangerous milieu opposition MPs are faced with in Cambodia”. “MPs from all parties should be free to exercise their profession, to represent the interest of their voters and to express themselves in public without the fear of being arrested or detained arbitrarily”, she said, while Yeng Virak, director of the Community Legal Education Centre (CLEC) stressed that parliamentary immunity was “not something that can be lifted randomly by representatives of the government”.
“If Mu Sochua’s parliamentary immunity is lifted, this will simply prove that what she aims at showing is right: that opposition MPs are not free to do their job without fearing intimidation or persecution”, says Koul Panha, director of the Committee for Free and Fair Elections in Cambodia (COMFREL). For her part, Thida Khus, executive director of the Silaka organisation, deplores a “threat that is [...] sad in many ways [...] against one of the rare active female politicians, in a country where women’s voices are frequently silenced or ignored”. Reached by Ka-set, SRP MP for Kampot Mu Sochua simply indicated that she intended to leave justice to sort that case and that she would accept the eventual suspension of her parliamentary immunity, should judicial authorities decide to lift it. “I trust the will of MPs, of all the parties and I shall respect their decision”, she said. Her lawyer Kong Sam Onn explained that he only acted as he felt he should, as a lawyer, and denied having said any defamatory words about the Cambodian prime Minister.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Samdech Chea Sim meets with a delegation of Vietnam’s Religious Affairs Committee
Cambodian Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Thomma Pothisal Chea Sim (right), meets here on Tuesday with a delegation of Vietnam’s Religious Affairs Committee led by its Chairman Mr. Nguyen Tho Doang.
On the occasion, Mr. Ngyen Tho Doang told Cambodian leader over his committee’s continuation to further boost the cooperation with Cambodia’s Ministry of Cults and Religions.
In reply, Cambodian Senate President regarded the Vietnamese delegation’s visit to Cambodia as very important in further strengthening and consolidation the ties of relationship, friendship and cooperation, particularly between the religious domains of the two countries.
On the occasion, Mr. Ngyen Tho Doang told Cambodian leader over his committee’s continuation to further boost the cooperation with Cambodia’s Ministry of Cults and Religions.
In reply, Cambodian Senate President regarded the Vietnamese delegation’s visit to Cambodia as very important in further strengthening and consolidation the ties of relationship, friendship and cooperation, particularly between the religious domains of the two countries.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen Meets with Yang Jiechi
On February 1, 2008, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen met with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi in Phnom Penh. Both sides hoped to take the 50th anniversary of the China-Cambodia diplomatic relations and "China-Cambodia Year of Friendship" as an opportunity to push bilateral all-round friendly cooperative relations to a higher level.
Hun Sen said that under the careful cultivation of the generations of leaders of the two countries, Cambodia-China friendship and mutual trust have been strengthened in an all-round manner and the bilateral cooperation has yielded fruitful results with bilateral relations reaching one new level after another. China's rapid development has offered favorable opportunities to this region and China's support and help has played an important role for Cambodia to improve its capability of independent development and safeguard national independence and sovereignty. Hun Sen said as an inheritor and promoter of Cambodia-China friendly relations, he himself and the Cambodian government will remain committed to pushing forward bilateral relations.
Yang made positive comments on the friendly cooperative relations between China and Cambodia, as well as the results of the cooperation in all areas. He said the two countries are friendly neighbors. Over the past half a century since the forging of diplomatic relations, the China-Cambodia friendship created and cultivated by leaders of the two countries has withstood the tests of changeable international situation and has been consolidated and developed continuously. Yang said bilateral relations have entered a new stage for development with increasing political trust, dynamic exchanges in all areas and fruitful cooperation on economy and trade. Both sides have also maintained close communication and coordination on such international and regional issues as China-ASEAN relations, East Asia cooperation, and development of Great Mekong Sub-region.
Yang highly appreciated the Cambodian government's adherence to the one-China policy, firm opposition to "Taiwan independence", condemnation of Taiwan's "referendum on U.N. membership" and support of China's peaceful reunification. Yang said China hopes to take the 50th anniversary of the China-Cambodia diplomatic relations and "China-Cambodia Year of Friendship" as an opportunity and work with Cambodia to push bilateral all-round cooperative partnership to a higher level.
On the same day, Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, held talks with Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi. Both sides during their meeting reached consensus in the following four aspects to further expand bilateral friendly cooperation. First, maintain high-level exchanges and consolidate the political basis of bilateral ties. They vowed to well hold activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between both countries and "China-Cambodia Year of Friendship". Second, further tap potential for cooperation, give play to complementary advantages and expand economic and trade cooperation for mutual benefit and a win-win situation. Cambodia supports Chinese businesses to actively participate in hydroelectric power stations, roads and other infrastructure construction in Cambodia. Third, improve exchanges and cooperation in the fields of diplomacy, culture, sports, public health, tourism and protection of cultural relics, and between localities, expand cooperation area and enrich China-Cambodia comprehensive cooperative partnership. Fourth, strengthen coordination and cooperation on such international and regional affairs as the reform of the UN Security Council, as well as ASEAN-China, ASEAN plus China, Japan and ROK and Great Mekong Sub-region cooperation to safeguard common interests of both sides.
With regard to the Taiwan question, the Cambodian side reaffirmed firm adherence to the one-China policy, holding that the separatist activities aimed at "Taiwan independence" pose severe threats to peace and stability of this region and any separatist attempts to split Taiwan from China are doomed to failure. The Cambodian side also expressed sincere sympathy and solicitude for Chinese people in snow stricken areas.
Yang arrived in Phnom Penh on January 31 for a three-day official visit to Cambodia.
Hun Sen said that under the careful cultivation of the generations of leaders of the two countries, Cambodia-China friendship and mutual trust have been strengthened in an all-round manner and the bilateral cooperation has yielded fruitful results with bilateral relations reaching one new level after another. China's rapid development has offered favorable opportunities to this region and China's support and help has played an important role for Cambodia to improve its capability of independent development and safeguard national independence and sovereignty. Hun Sen said as an inheritor and promoter of Cambodia-China friendly relations, he himself and the Cambodian government will remain committed to pushing forward bilateral relations.
Yang made positive comments on the friendly cooperative relations between China and Cambodia, as well as the results of the cooperation in all areas. He said the two countries are friendly neighbors. Over the past half a century since the forging of diplomatic relations, the China-Cambodia friendship created and cultivated by leaders of the two countries has withstood the tests of changeable international situation and has been consolidated and developed continuously. Yang said bilateral relations have entered a new stage for development with increasing political trust, dynamic exchanges in all areas and fruitful cooperation on economy and trade. Both sides have also maintained close communication and coordination on such international and regional issues as China-ASEAN relations, East Asia cooperation, and development of Great Mekong Sub-region.
Yang highly appreciated the Cambodian government's adherence to the one-China policy, firm opposition to "Taiwan independence", condemnation of Taiwan's "referendum on U.N. membership" and support of China's peaceful reunification. Yang said China hopes to take the 50th anniversary of the China-Cambodia diplomatic relations and "China-Cambodia Year of Friendship" as an opportunity and work with Cambodia to push bilateral all-round cooperative partnership to a higher level.
On the same day, Hor Namhong, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, held talks with Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi. Both sides during their meeting reached consensus in the following four aspects to further expand bilateral friendly cooperation. First, maintain high-level exchanges and consolidate the political basis of bilateral ties. They vowed to well hold activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between both countries and "China-Cambodia Year of Friendship". Second, further tap potential for cooperation, give play to complementary advantages and expand economic and trade cooperation for mutual benefit and a win-win situation. Cambodia supports Chinese businesses to actively participate in hydroelectric power stations, roads and other infrastructure construction in Cambodia. Third, improve exchanges and cooperation in the fields of diplomacy, culture, sports, public health, tourism and protection of cultural relics, and between localities, expand cooperation area and enrich China-Cambodia comprehensive cooperative partnership. Fourth, strengthen coordination and cooperation on such international and regional affairs as the reform of the UN Security Council, as well as ASEAN-China, ASEAN plus China, Japan and ROK and Great Mekong Sub-region cooperation to safeguard common interests of both sides.
With regard to the Taiwan question, the Cambodian side reaffirmed firm adherence to the one-China policy, holding that the separatist activities aimed at "Taiwan independence" pose severe threats to peace and stability of this region and any separatist attempts to split Taiwan from China are doomed to failure. The Cambodian side also expressed sincere sympathy and solicitude for Chinese people in snow stricken areas.
Yang arrived in Phnom Penh on January 31 for a three-day official visit to Cambodia.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Samdech Hun Sen participates the Korean-ASEAN Summit
Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen accompanied by his wife Lok Chumteav Bun Rany Hun Sen and senior government officials shakes hands with senior government officials on May 30, prior to his departure from Phnom Penh International Airport to the Republic of Korea to participate the Korean-ASEAN Summit.
During the visit, three agreements and four MOUs are expected to be signed between Korea and Cambodia.
Moreover, Cambodian Premier Techo Hun Sen will also attend the Executive Directors’ Summit of Korea’s giant companies with ASEAN in order to look for more cooperation on the investment for both regions.
During the visit, three agreements and four MOUs are expected to be signed between Korea and Cambodia.
Moreover, Cambodian Premier Techo Hun Sen will also attend the Executive Directors’ Summit of Korea’s giant companies with ASEAN in order to look for more cooperation on the investment for both regions.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Samdech Hun Sen
Personal Information
Born on August 5, 1952 (officially on April 4th, 1951) in Peam Koh Sna Commune, Stoeung Trang District of Kampong Cham Province, upon completion of his local primary schooling, in 1965 Hun Sen came to Phnom Penh to continue his secondary education in the Lycée Indra Devi. He resided in Neakavoan Pagoda.
In 1970 Cambodia was plunged into war. Responding to the appeal of Prince Sihanouk to Cambodians to join the war against the imperialists, at the age of 18, Hun Sen joined the struggle movement, which liberated the country on April 17, 1975.
One day before the victory, on April 16, 1975, Hun Sen was wounded in the left eye. Recovering after months of treatment, he married Bun Rany (Hun Sen and Bun Rany have three sons and three daughters — one of whom is adopted — Hun Manet, Hun Mana, Hun Manit, Hun Mani, Hun Mali, and Hun Malis.)
Political Careers
Witnessing the Pol Pot regime's policy of genocide, in 1977 he left his beloved family again to lead a movement aimed at liberating Cambodia and its people from the genocidal regime. In 1978, Hun Sen became a founding member of the United Front for the National Salvation of Kampuchea (UFNSK). In collaboration with other patriotic movements and with the support of Vietnamese volunteer forces, on January 7, 1979, the UFNSK rescued Cambodia and its people from the genocidal regime of Democratic Kampuchea.
From 1979 to 1993, Hun Sen held various positions in the Cambodian administrations – the People's Republic of Kampuchea and then the State of Cambodia. As Foreign Minister in 1979, as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister from 1981 to 1985, and then as Prime Minister and Foreign Minister from 1985 to 1991, Hun Sen brought about several remarkable achievements, laying the basis for the implementation of peace, national reconciliation, and the development of Cambodia. Through his willing contribution and efforts, Hun Sen proved an indispensable architect of the Paris Peace Agreement on Cambodia.
As a result of the implementation of the Agreement and the 1993 national elections, from 1993 to 1998 Hun Sen served Cambodia as the Co-Premier and then the second Prime Minister of the first coalition government. In this position, he again proved to be an earnest defender of national achievements and of the Paris Peace Agreement. His achievements in this period included fulfilling commitments to the improvement of rural roads, schools, dispensaries and health care centers, and access to clean water, while carrying out the win-win policy which ends the Khmer Rouge's threat and unifies Cambodia.
In July 1998, the general election brought victory to the Cambodian People's Party, of which Hun Sen is the Vice President. He became the sole Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, leading the second coalition government of the two major parties – the CPP and FUNCINPEC – and solemnly declared his Government to be an "economy-oriented government." Under his leadership Cambodia became the 10th member of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Samdech Hun Sen, as the candidate of the Cambodian People’s Party for the post of Prime Minister, again led the CPP to a victory in the July-2003 general elections. After eleven months of political difficulties, once more he succeeded in forming a coalition with FUNCINPEC. On July 15, 2004, under a new law allowing for a package vote, the National Assembly re-elected him as Prime Minister, and ratified the third-term coalition Government between the Cambodian People’s Party and FUNCINPEC.
On July 16, 2004, in his capacity as the Prime Minister of the Royal Government in the third legislature of the National Assembly, Samdech Hun Sen declares the Royal Government's “Rectangular Strategy” for Growth, Employment, Equity and Efficiency - in addition to the Triangular Strategy put out in the previous term.
On November 23, 2005, the CPP Congress issued its resolution to unanimously nominate its Vice President Samdech Hun Sen as the candidate for the post of Prime Minister for the fourth legislature of the National Assembly.
On September 25, 2008, after winning the general elections of July 27, 2008 in which the Cambodian People's Party won 90 from the 123 seats in the National Assembly, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen has been re-elected by the Fourth Legislature of the National Assembly and approved by HM the King, Preah Karuna Preah Bat Sâmdech Preah Bâromneath Norodom Sihamoni, as Prime Minister for the next five-year term (2008-2013).
Education Achievements, Titles, Awards and Medals
For his great efforts and contributions to national reconciliation, peace, and the socio-economic development of Cambodia, Hun Sen is awarded the title of "Samdech" by His Majesty the King Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk.
He has a B.A. in Politics from the Cambodian Tertiary Education, a Ph.D. in Political Science from the National Political Academy in Hanoi (1991), and two Honorary Doctorates -- a Ph. D. in Politics from the Southern California University for Professional Studies, USA (1995), and a Ph.D. of Law from IOWA Wesleyan College, USA (1996).
On December 02, 1996 the World Peace Academy presented Samdech Hun Sen with the World Peace Award. As the sixth person, and the first in South Asia, to attain this honorable award, the Academy conferred three titles on Samdech Hun Sen -- 1) the Human Cultural Asset, 2) the Roving Ambassador for Peace, and 3) the World Peace Congressman.
On April 10, 2001 in Seoul, the Awarding Committee of Graduate School of Dankook University in South Korea bestowed the Honorary Doctorate in Political Sciences upon Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen in recognition of contributions to the recovery of peace and stability in Cambodia, the improvement of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and the Republic of Korea, and his efforts towards East-Asian cooperation.
On November 15, 2001 Samdech Hun Sen was bestowed with the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Political Science (Honoris Causa) in the field of Foreign Relations from the University of Ramkhamhaeng, Thailand.
On December 22, 2001 Sri Chinmoy of the International Peace Center presented Samdech Hun Sen with "Lifting Up the World with a Oneness-Heart" Award. It was presented in recognition of achievements scored by Samdech Hun Sen both in quantitative and qualitative terms. Sri Chinmoy refers to Samdech Hun Sen as an instrument selected by the Lord Buddha to save millions of people of Cambodia from deaths, to provide them with education, food and shelters, to build them schools, hospitals and water canals, and to lead Cambodia into ASEAN.
On August 6, 2002 Samdech Hun Sen was admitted as a member the Academy of Natural Sciences of the Russian Federation and was conferred with a medal in recognition of his leadership in bringing peace, stability and socio-economic development for Cambodia.
On September 04, 2002 the Committee of ASEAN Engineering Federation (AFF) presented Samdech Hun Sen with the title of "ASEAN Distinguished Honorary Fellow Member" -- the AEF's highest honorary title and the first one ever presented. This is to recognize his national consciousness and leadership ability in ending civil war, carrying all-field rehabilitation and development, and giving opportunity to Cambodian engineers to take part in the process of national reconstruction and development.
On April 10, 2004 the governors and the senate of the Irish International University of the European Union confer the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science upon Samdech Hun Sen and in recognition of Samdech's contributions and achievement, the Irish International University also honors Samdech with the Medal of Excellence 2004.
On July 09, 2004 in recognition of his contribution to and achievements in the defense, construction and development of Cambodia, his proven leadership with advanced political sciences, of reforms in all fields, especially in high education, and in maintaining the national reconciliation, stability, peace and regional integration, the University of Cambodia grants Samdech Hun Sen the Honorary Doctorate Degree in Political Sciences.
On September 15, 2004 Samdech Hun Sen has been accepted and sworn in as a member of the Bar Association of Cambodia.
On September 06, 2005 once again, in deepest admiration for Samdech Hun Sen’s tireless service for the progress of Cambodia and the entire ASEAN nations, Sri Chinmoy Centers International presented Samdech with its highest award -- the U Thant Peace Award.
On March 21, 2006 during the official visit to the Republic of Korea, the Soon Chun Hyang University in Seoul conferred Samdech Hun Sen an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science to signify his leading contribution in the reconstruction of and devoting physical and spiritual efforts for peace and prosperity in Cambodia and South East Asia as a whole, and particularly in promoting friendly relations with the Republic of Korea.
On June 28, 2006 in appreciation and tribute to Samdech Hun Sen’s various important contributions to the world of education, his reassuring determination for the well being of his people and the vast improvement of Cambodia-Thailand relations, the Council of Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University unanimously resolved to confer on HE Samdech Hun Sen the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education for Locality Development in recognition of his role in developing the country through education and in contributing to strengthen the good relations between the two countries.
On January 29, 2007 thanks to the contribution for socio-economic development of Cambodia which has resulted in its rapid and multi-faceted development in the recent years, the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam, along with the Hanoi National University of Education confers upon Samdech Hun Sen the University's Honorable PhD Degree (the Degree of Doctor Honoris Causa) in Education.
On July 27, 2007, the Association of Certified Commercial Diplomats (ACCD), City of London, England, the first independent international Professional Body of Certified Diplomats, admits Samdech Hun Sen to the rank, privileges, distinction and status of "Chartered Diplomat" with perpetual right to append the letters "C Dipl" in response to his success and fulfillment of ACCD's prescribed requirements through integrity, commitment and outstanding achievements in Diplomacy and Peace Building. On September 21, 2007, once again, The Association of Certified Commercial Diplomats (ACCD) awards Samdech Hun Sen C Dipl its Honorary Fellowship of Companion of Commercial Diplomacy.
On October 12, 2007, Preah Karuna Preah Bat Sâmdech Preah Bâromneath Norodom Sihamoni Nai Preah Reacheanachakr Kampuchea (or His Majesty, King Norodom Sihamoni of the Kingdom of Cambodia) bestowed upon Samdech Hun Sen the title of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen for the understanding that Samdech is a distinguished leader, loved by his people, who leads the country according to the 1993-Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia, brings about national peace, stability, unity, economics and development in all sectors, defends democracy and achieves positive international cooperation, maintains and defends national independence, territorial integrity in accordance with the prospect of Sangkum Reast Niyum, while taking the lead in building and broadening respect and progress for Buddhism and other religions, having a loyalty to the throne, and defending justice for the sustainability of the monarchy in the Kingdom of Cambodia.
On January 7, 2008 Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen is presented by the International Parliamentary for Safety and Peace (IPSP) with the titles - Senator for Life, and Ambassador at Large to the World Presidency, and by the Universidad Empresarial de Costa Rica its title Honorable Professor of Diplomatic and International Relations in respect of the talent and aptitude that Samdech Techo Hun Sen bravely stood up in the twentieth century to save millions of human lives, pooled together charitable and personal efforts to liberate them from hardships, while maintaining prosperity, freedom and happiness, and, for the January-7 Victory, providing the Cambodian people with futures, strong culture and democracy.
On November 25, 2008, in Vientiane, Lao PDR, President Choummaly Sayasone awards Samdech Techo Hun Sen - the Lao national gold medal - in recognition of his efforts in enhancing relations, creating good conditions and developing economies, societies and cultures between Laos and Cambodia.
On January 07, 2009, Phnom Penh, the Graduate School Committee of the Woosuk University confers Prime Minister Hun Sen the degree of doctor of Economics, Honoris Causa, in recognition of his distinguished contributions towards the improvement of the economic cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Born on August 5, 1952 (officially on April 4th, 1951) in Peam Koh Sna Commune, Stoeung Trang District of Kampong Cham Province, upon completion of his local primary schooling, in 1965 Hun Sen came to Phnom Penh to continue his secondary education in the Lycée Indra Devi. He resided in Neakavoan Pagoda.
In 1970 Cambodia was plunged into war. Responding to the appeal of Prince Sihanouk to Cambodians to join the war against the imperialists, at the age of 18, Hun Sen joined the struggle movement, which liberated the country on April 17, 1975.
One day before the victory, on April 16, 1975, Hun Sen was wounded in the left eye. Recovering after months of treatment, he married Bun Rany (Hun Sen and Bun Rany have three sons and three daughters — one of whom is adopted — Hun Manet, Hun Mana, Hun Manit, Hun Mani, Hun Mali, and Hun Malis.)
Political Careers
Witnessing the Pol Pot regime's policy of genocide, in 1977 he left his beloved family again to lead a movement aimed at liberating Cambodia and its people from the genocidal regime. In 1978, Hun Sen became a founding member of the United Front for the National Salvation of Kampuchea (UFNSK). In collaboration with other patriotic movements and with the support of Vietnamese volunteer forces, on January 7, 1979, the UFNSK rescued Cambodia and its people from the genocidal regime of Democratic Kampuchea.
From 1979 to 1993, Hun Sen held various positions in the Cambodian administrations – the People's Republic of Kampuchea and then the State of Cambodia. As Foreign Minister in 1979, as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister from 1981 to 1985, and then as Prime Minister and Foreign Minister from 1985 to 1991, Hun Sen brought about several remarkable achievements, laying the basis for the implementation of peace, national reconciliation, and the development of Cambodia. Through his willing contribution and efforts, Hun Sen proved an indispensable architect of the Paris Peace Agreement on Cambodia.
As a result of the implementation of the Agreement and the 1993 national elections, from 1993 to 1998 Hun Sen served Cambodia as the Co-Premier and then the second Prime Minister of the first coalition government. In this position, he again proved to be an earnest defender of national achievements and of the Paris Peace Agreement. His achievements in this period included fulfilling commitments to the improvement of rural roads, schools, dispensaries and health care centers, and access to clean water, while carrying out the win-win policy which ends the Khmer Rouge's threat and unifies Cambodia.
In July 1998, the general election brought victory to the Cambodian People's Party, of which Hun Sen is the Vice President. He became the sole Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, leading the second coalition government of the two major parties – the CPP and FUNCINPEC – and solemnly declared his Government to be an "economy-oriented government." Under his leadership Cambodia became the 10th member of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Samdech Hun Sen, as the candidate of the Cambodian People’s Party for the post of Prime Minister, again led the CPP to a victory in the July-2003 general elections. After eleven months of political difficulties, once more he succeeded in forming a coalition with FUNCINPEC. On July 15, 2004, under a new law allowing for a package vote, the National Assembly re-elected him as Prime Minister, and ratified the third-term coalition Government between the Cambodian People’s Party and FUNCINPEC.
On July 16, 2004, in his capacity as the Prime Minister of the Royal Government in the third legislature of the National Assembly, Samdech Hun Sen declares the Royal Government's “Rectangular Strategy” for Growth, Employment, Equity and Efficiency - in addition to the Triangular Strategy put out in the previous term.
On November 23, 2005, the CPP Congress issued its resolution to unanimously nominate its Vice President Samdech Hun Sen as the candidate for the post of Prime Minister for the fourth legislature of the National Assembly.
On September 25, 2008, after winning the general elections of July 27, 2008 in which the Cambodian People's Party won 90 from the 123 seats in the National Assembly, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen has been re-elected by the Fourth Legislature of the National Assembly and approved by HM the King, Preah Karuna Preah Bat Sâmdech Preah Bâromneath Norodom Sihamoni, as Prime Minister for the next five-year term (2008-2013).
Education Achievements, Titles, Awards and Medals
For his great efforts and contributions to national reconciliation, peace, and the socio-economic development of Cambodia, Hun Sen is awarded the title of "Samdech" by His Majesty the King Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk.
He has a B.A. in Politics from the Cambodian Tertiary Education, a Ph.D. in Political Science from the National Political Academy in Hanoi (1991), and two Honorary Doctorates -- a Ph. D. in Politics from the Southern California University for Professional Studies, USA (1995), and a Ph.D. of Law from IOWA Wesleyan College, USA (1996).
On December 02, 1996 the World Peace Academy presented Samdech Hun Sen with the World Peace Award. As the sixth person, and the first in South Asia, to attain this honorable award, the Academy conferred three titles on Samdech Hun Sen -- 1) the Human Cultural Asset, 2) the Roving Ambassador for Peace, and 3) the World Peace Congressman.
On April 10, 2001 in Seoul, the Awarding Committee of Graduate School of Dankook University in South Korea bestowed the Honorary Doctorate in Political Sciences upon Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen in recognition of contributions to the recovery of peace and stability in Cambodia, the improvement of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and the Republic of Korea, and his efforts towards East-Asian cooperation.
On November 15, 2001 Samdech Hun Sen was bestowed with the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Political Science (Honoris Causa) in the field of Foreign Relations from the University of Ramkhamhaeng, Thailand.
On December 22, 2001 Sri Chinmoy of the International Peace Center presented Samdech Hun Sen with "Lifting Up the World with a Oneness-Heart" Award. It was presented in recognition of achievements scored by Samdech Hun Sen both in quantitative and qualitative terms. Sri Chinmoy refers to Samdech Hun Sen as an instrument selected by the Lord Buddha to save millions of people of Cambodia from deaths, to provide them with education, food and shelters, to build them schools, hospitals and water canals, and to lead Cambodia into ASEAN.
On August 6, 2002 Samdech Hun Sen was admitted as a member the Academy of Natural Sciences of the Russian Federation and was conferred with a medal in recognition of his leadership in bringing peace, stability and socio-economic development for Cambodia.
On September 04, 2002 the Committee of ASEAN Engineering Federation (AFF) presented Samdech Hun Sen with the title of "ASEAN Distinguished Honorary Fellow Member" -- the AEF's highest honorary title and the first one ever presented. This is to recognize his national consciousness and leadership ability in ending civil war, carrying all-field rehabilitation and development, and giving opportunity to Cambodian engineers to take part in the process of national reconstruction and development.
On April 10, 2004 the governors and the senate of the Irish International University of the European Union confer the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science upon Samdech Hun Sen and in recognition of Samdech's contributions and achievement, the Irish International University also honors Samdech with the Medal of Excellence 2004.
On July 09, 2004 in recognition of his contribution to and achievements in the defense, construction and development of Cambodia, his proven leadership with advanced political sciences, of reforms in all fields, especially in high education, and in maintaining the national reconciliation, stability, peace and regional integration, the University of Cambodia grants Samdech Hun Sen the Honorary Doctorate Degree in Political Sciences.
On September 15, 2004 Samdech Hun Sen has been accepted and sworn in as a member of the Bar Association of Cambodia.
On September 06, 2005 once again, in deepest admiration for Samdech Hun Sen’s tireless service for the progress of Cambodia and the entire ASEAN nations, Sri Chinmoy Centers International presented Samdech with its highest award -- the U Thant Peace Award.
On March 21, 2006 during the official visit to the Republic of Korea, the Soon Chun Hyang University in Seoul conferred Samdech Hun Sen an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science to signify his leading contribution in the reconstruction of and devoting physical and spiritual efforts for peace and prosperity in Cambodia and South East Asia as a whole, and particularly in promoting friendly relations with the Republic of Korea.
On June 28, 2006 in appreciation and tribute to Samdech Hun Sen’s various important contributions to the world of education, his reassuring determination for the well being of his people and the vast improvement of Cambodia-Thailand relations, the Council of Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University unanimously resolved to confer on HE Samdech Hun Sen the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education for Locality Development in recognition of his role in developing the country through education and in contributing to strengthen the good relations between the two countries.
On January 29, 2007 thanks to the contribution for socio-economic development of Cambodia which has resulted in its rapid and multi-faceted development in the recent years, the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam, along with the Hanoi National University of Education confers upon Samdech Hun Sen the University's Honorable PhD Degree (the Degree of Doctor Honoris Causa) in Education.
On July 27, 2007, the Association of Certified Commercial Diplomats (ACCD), City of London, England, the first independent international Professional Body of Certified Diplomats, admits Samdech Hun Sen to the rank, privileges, distinction and status of "Chartered Diplomat" with perpetual right to append the letters "C Dipl" in response to his success and fulfillment of ACCD's prescribed requirements through integrity, commitment and outstanding achievements in Diplomacy and Peace Building. On September 21, 2007, once again, The Association of Certified Commercial Diplomats (ACCD) awards Samdech Hun Sen C Dipl its Honorary Fellowship of Companion of Commercial Diplomacy.
On October 12, 2007, Preah Karuna Preah Bat Sâmdech Preah Bâromneath Norodom Sihamoni Nai Preah Reacheanachakr Kampuchea (or His Majesty, King Norodom Sihamoni of the Kingdom of Cambodia) bestowed upon Samdech Hun Sen the title of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen for the understanding that Samdech is a distinguished leader, loved by his people, who leads the country according to the 1993-Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia, brings about national peace, stability, unity, economics and development in all sectors, defends democracy and achieves positive international cooperation, maintains and defends national independence, territorial integrity in accordance with the prospect of Sangkum Reast Niyum, while taking the lead in building and broadening respect and progress for Buddhism and other religions, having a loyalty to the throne, and defending justice for the sustainability of the monarchy in the Kingdom of Cambodia.
On January 7, 2008 Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen is presented by the International Parliamentary for Safety and Peace (IPSP) with the titles - Senator for Life, and Ambassador at Large to the World Presidency, and by the Universidad Empresarial de Costa Rica its title Honorable Professor of Diplomatic and International Relations in respect of the talent and aptitude that Samdech Techo Hun Sen bravely stood up in the twentieth century to save millions of human lives, pooled together charitable and personal efforts to liberate them from hardships, while maintaining prosperity, freedom and happiness, and, for the January-7 Victory, providing the Cambodian people with futures, strong culture and democracy.
On November 25, 2008, in Vientiane, Lao PDR, President Choummaly Sayasone awards Samdech Techo Hun Sen - the Lao national gold medal - in recognition of his efforts in enhancing relations, creating good conditions and developing economies, societies and cultures between Laos and Cambodia.
On January 07, 2009, Phnom Penh, the Graduate School Committee of the Woosuk University confers Prime Minister Hun Sen the degree of doctor of Economics, Honoris Causa, in recognition of his distinguished contributions towards the improvement of the economic cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the Kingdom of Cambodia.
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