Kanagawa:Tokyo The Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Japan has addressed criticism surrounding the decision of Cambodian Ambassador to Japan, H.E. CHUM Sounry, not to shake hands with Sam Rainsy during a Buddhist Kathina ceremony in Kanagawa Prefecture on November 8.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Embassy refuted what it described as misleading interpretations and unwarranted criticism from opposition-affiliated individuals regarding the incident. The statement from the Embassy, issued on November 11, clarified that after the ceremony at Wat Khmer Samakki, Sam Rainsy approached the Ambassador for a handshake while others prepared to take photographs.
The Embassy explained that the Ambassador declined the handshake due to Sam Rainsy's legal and political status, including his convictions by Cambodian courts and his involvement in political activities abroad lacking constitutional authority. This decision was made to prevent any misleading implications of endorsement or recognition of Sam Rainsy's political claims.
The Embassy emphasized that the handshake should not be seen as an ordinary gesture between Cambodian nationals. It highlighted the potential for photographs to create a false impression of the Ambassador's support for Sam Rainsy, which could conflict with Cambodia's official position.
The statement also pointed out the importance of preserving the dignity and authority of the institutions represented by the Ambassador. It stressed that shared nationality and social courtesy do not obligate diplomatic representatives to engage in gestures that might suggest official endorsement.
Furthermore, the Embassy underscored that religious ceremonies should focus on devotion and respect, without being politicized. It concluded by rejecting efforts to misrepresent the incident and use it as a basis for personal attacks against the Ambassador.