Report Thailand Denies Imminent Artefact Return to Cambodia

[webfact]

Picture  courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Thailand's suspended PM, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, dismisses claims of imminent artefact return to Cambodia, pledging legal action and stressing sovereignty.

 

Suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has vehemently denied claims that Thailand is poised to return 20 ancient artefacts to Cambodia.

 

Speaking in her role as the new culture minister, Paetongtarn clarified that 23 artefacts were indeed returned to Cambodia back in 2015 after verifying their origins.

 

Although the Cabinet has given a nod in principle for returning another 20 artefacts by 2024, she confirmed that these remain in Thailand due to budget constraints of the Fine Arts Department and ongoing border tensions making the issue less pressing.

 

Paetongtarn highlighted that funding challenges mean the artefact return cannot be prioritised by the central budget. "This is not considered an urgent matter," she stated, adding that the proposal requires resubmission for ministry-level budgeting and Cabinet discussion.

 

Given the sensitive nature of Thai-Cambodian relations, further review is recommended by the Culture Ministry.

 

Taking a firm stance, Paetongtarn warned against the spread of false information, potentially leading to legal repercussions. She underscored Thailand's sovereignty over the Ta Muen Thom temple complex in Surin, safeguarded under the 1961 Ancient Monuments Act.

 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also actively working to maintain Thai sovereignty in other contentious areas along the Cambodian border.

 

As culture minister, Paetongtarn sees potential in boosting Thailand's global image through soft power initiatives. She pledged support for the nation’s creative industries, aiming to extend cash rebates to Thai productions, previously exclusive to foreign filmmakers.

 

"I want to see Thai films go further," she remarked, emphasising how they can promote Thai products and culture internationally.

 

Outlining her vision, Paetongtarn identified four pivotal soft power industries: film, food, Muay Thai, and wellness.

 

She believes these sectors possess the capability to quickly elevate Thailand's economic prospects, tourism, and job market. Emphasising collaboration, she affirmed readiness to support joint ventures between the Culture Ministry and both public and private sectors.

 

Despite facing political obstacles, Paetongtarn remains committed to leveraging soft power for cultural and economic growth. "I have long advocated for soft power as a development strategy," she expressed, ensuring her dedication in spite of her suspension.

 

The 38-year-old Pheu Thai leader’s premiership was suspended as of 1 July by the Constitutional Court, pending resolution of ethical misconduct and power abuse allegations.

 

Social activist Srisuwan Janya has petitioned for an investigation into her and Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit's actions, which might violate the suspension order following a recent Cabinet reshuffle.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-05

 

 

[JoePai]

She's history - next please

[Artisi]

What does budget restraints have to do with return of stolen items, put them in a cab to the border   -  that would at best cost a couple of thousand Bht - end of story. 

 

The p*SS poor excuse is just typical Thai nonsense. 

[Emdog]

The Emerald Buddha... is that of Lao origin? any trips planned?

[Artisi]

1 hour ago, Emdog said:

The Emerald Buddha... is that of Lao origin? any trips planned?

It is from Laos - trust they aren't holding their breath for its return. 

[NoMoonLogistics]

A civilised country would give them back.

 

Just like UK returned the stolen Elgin Marbles.

And the Smithsonian no longer holds the most extensive - and bizarre - collection of other poeple's skulls, bones and carcasses in the world - because they returned them all to thier sacred right places.

 

Yeah right.