Cambodia: Progress and Challenges since 1991

Foreword

FOREWORD When I was requested to draft a foreword for this book, I inquired into the origins of the book proposal, and was immediately struck by its timeliness, as 2011 is the 20th anniversary of the 1991 Paris Peace Conference which brought about a diplomatic resolution of the protracted Cambodia conflict. I also liked the way it focused on the future prospects of Cambodia, looking ahead and putting past acrimony behind, which is in tune with the concept of national reconciliation, which we practice in Cambodia. Thirdly, I was amazed by the appropriate nationalities of the three scholars from ISEAS, who are the co-editors of this book. One is a Cambodian, another is Singaporean and the third is Australian. Those who know the history of the diplomatic efforts to help resolve the Cambodian conflict will recognize that these were the three countries intimately involved in bringing the conflict to a negotiated settlement. Let me express my appreciation for the hard work, organization and initiative of the three co-editors who guided this useful book to fruition. 2011 is also the year in which Singapore’s Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew’s thoughts, recorded through interviews by a team of journalists from the Singapore Straits Times, were published in a book entitled: Lee Kuan Yew: Hard Truths to Keep Singapore Going. What struck me most was a quotation from Mr Lee, who said: “Singapore is my concern till the end of my life.” (Straits Times, 22 January 2011) When I read it, I was impressed by the dedication and passion of Mr Lee, whom we all know as the Father of Modern Singapore. I have been lucky to meet Mr Lee, and also know that it was his strong support for King Sihanouk and for Free Cambodia that kept the efforts going for over ten years. What I wish for my Cambodian compatriots is that same patriotism and drive to make our country a modern, peaceful, prosperous and forwardlooking country. After all the terrible conflicts, killings, sufferings and turmoil, all Cambodians would surely share my wishes for our beloved country. In a sense, I wish to dedicate this book to our two great leaders, HM King Sihanouk and to MM Lee Kuan Yew, and their ministers and officials, who achieved peace and freedom for democratic Cambodia. Now we need to draw some lessons in economic development from the Little Red Dot. After all, if even great China can learn from Singapore, why not Cambodia? ix 00 Cambodia_Progress 3/6/12, 10:20 AM 9 Lastly, in regard to the future of Cambodia, let me touch upon the three principles which may guide our nation-building, just as the French have chosen: Liberté, Egalité and Fraternité, for their founding principles. I suggest Buddhism, Education and National Unity as our guiding principles. Every one will have their own mix, but bearing in mind our tragic history, our culture and the need to build knowledge for our future, these three principles seem as appropriate as any. Let this timely book serve as a foundation and compass for future generations of Cambodians, who need to look back at our history, and forwards towards a glorious future: we who are the children of Great Angkor. HRH Norodom Sirivudh Phnom Penh, Cambodia June 2011 x Foreword 00 Cambodia_Progress 3/6/12, 10:20 AM 10 ...