PHNOM PENH, April 14 (Xinhua) — China has been instrumental in the restoration, preservation, and development of the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia, according to the country’s Tourism Minister Huot Hak.
Spanning 401 square kilometers, the Angkor park is Cambodia’s most visited tourist destination, home to 91 ancient temples built between the 9th and 13th centuries. Among the most iconic temples are Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Keo, Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, and Phnom Bakheng.
Since 1997, China has played a pivotal role in restoring several of the park’s ruined temples. Notably, the restoration of Chau Say Tevoda and Ta Keo temples was completed successfully with Chinese support. Currently, Chinese experts are focused on the restoration of Phimeanakas, a temple located within the Royal Palace complex of Angkor Thom.
Minister Hak expressed gratitude for China’s long-standing commitment, noting that the Chinese government has provided essential resources, including scholars, architects, archaeologists, and technicians, to help restore and protect the historical site.
“I would like to thank the government and people of China for dedicating their time, energy, resources, and budget to preserve, protect, and restore the ancient temples of Angkor,” Hak stated in a recent interview with Xinhua. He also highlighted the importance of China’s contribution in returning the monuments to their original grandeur.
Hak commended the work of Chinese experts, emphasizing their invaluable contributions to the preservation of Cambodia’s heritage. “The expertise of Chinese scholars, experts, and technicians has played a crucial role in our efforts to safeguard and develop these ancient temples,” he remarked.
The minister further acknowledged China’s continued support for the restoration of the Phimeanakas temple, stressing that Cambodia has full trust in China’s expertise. In addition to restoring the temples, China has assisted in training Cambodian archaeologists and experts in preservation techniques.
The Angkor park saw 1.02 million international visitors in 2024, generating $47.8 million in ticket sales, according to the Angkor Enterprise.
Minister Hak also lauded China’s support for Cambodia’s tourism sector. He pointed out that Chinese-backed infrastructure projects, including the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway and the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, have provided a solid foundation for the kingdom’s economic and tourism growth.
Commenting on China’s broader global initiatives, Hak expressed strong support for China’s vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. “China’s initiatives aim to foster common interests and shared prosperity, and we fully support this vision,” he said. “It brings countries together and promotes mutual benefits and development.”
