BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Fine Arts stressed that ancient monuments must not be used for military purposes, citing international norms that prohibit the establishment of military positions at cultural heritage sites due to the high risk of damage during armed conflict.
Speaking at a briefing of the Joint Press Center on the Thailand–Cambodia border situation, Phanombut Chantarachot, Director-General of the Fine Arts Department, reported indications that Cambodian forces have used ancient monument areas, including Ta Kwai Temple, for military purposes. These actions have led to weapon deployment and damage to archaeological sites along the border.
The Director-General emphasized that the Fine Arts Department has the expertise and technology to restore Ta Kwai Temple and other affected monuments to structural stability and near-original condition. He referenced successful restoration projects in Thailand, such as Phanom Rung Historical Park, Phimai Historical Park, and Prasat Sdok Kok Thom, and noted that modern conservation technologies further strengthen these efforts.
The Department reiterated that its legal authority for restoration applies only to ancient monuments within Thai territory. As long as these sites remain on Thai soil, the Department can fully restore and conserve them. Experience shows that all ancient monuments in Thailand’s sovereign territory have been consistently maintained in stable condition.
The Fine Arts Department expressed confidence that, once the situation stabilizes, affected monuments within Thailand can be fully restored in accordance with professional conservation standards. (NNT)
