Cambodian PM urges continued co-existence of all religious groups

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on Sunday appealed to all different religious groups in Cambodia to continue living together harmoniously in order to build a prosperous society. "The government still sticks to an open policy for people's rights in choosing beliefs and religions," he told about 500 Muslims during the closing ceremony of the 22nd Quran reciting contest in Cambodia at the capital's Chaktomuk Theater. "I'd like to continue urging all religions in Cambodia to live together harmoniously and help the government develop the country towards a prosperous society." The premier said that Muslims, who were born and are living in Cambodia, are lucky because the country has no discrimination, violence and division in the religious circles. "Even though Buddhism is Cambodia's state religion and most Cambodians are Buddhists, the government always gives attention to the freedom of other convictions and religions, sticking to the policy of equal status, equal rights and same obligation implementation," he said. It was the first time that the prime minister attended the closing ceremony of the annual Quran reciting contest. Meanwhile, Hun Sen announced the launch of a Muslim Foundation for Quran Reading Support and pledged to make a donation of 5,000 U.S dollars every year to the foundation. Some 600,000 Khmer Muslims are living in Cambodia. Sos Kamry, the spiritual leader of Cambodia's Muslim community, expressed his gratitude to the premier for supporting Muslims in maintaining their belief and religion. He announced, on behalf of the Muslim community, to support the candidate of Hun Sen for the post of prime minister in the 5th legislative term, for which a general election will be held on July 28.