The 42nd Technical Session of the ICC-Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk Committee Continues Discussions on Technical Conservation and Sustainable Development Work

The International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Site of Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk (ICC-Angkor/Sambor Prei Kuk) opened its 2-day 42nd Technical Session (June 9–10, 2026) at the Sokha Angkor Hotel. This technical session focuses on detailed discussions regarding the restoration, conservation, and sustainable development of the Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological zones.

The meeting is co-chaired by Mr. NAGASE Kensuke, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan to Cambodia, and Mr. Pierre VINCENT, Counselor for Culture and Cooperation of the Embassy of France to Cambodia, under the high presidency of Her Excellency Doctor Academician Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the APSARA National Authority.

During the opening ceremony, Her Excellency Minister Phoeurng Sackona expressed her deepest respect and profound condolences over the passing of His Excellency Chum Sophamakara, Deputy Director General of the APSARA National Authority, who passed away on June 1 due to a traffic accident. This represents the loss of an important leader and valuable human resource for the APSARA National Authority, who consistently contributed to training and transferring knowledge within this national institution. In honor of his memory, the attendees also observed a moment of silence to pay tribute to His Excellency Chum Sophamakara.

Please note that during this 42nd Technical Session, both Cambodian and international experts will discuss and review conservation reports, evaluate the progress of ancient temple restorations in the Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological regions, and provide further technical recommendations. Furthermore, the spirit of the meeting underscores key objectives focusing on the conservation of ancient temple stones, regional resort development projects, environmental and forestry sustainability, and supporting human resource training across various conservation and technical skills.

Text: Chhay Phanny

Photos: Sin Pranei, Roth Phallin, Hab Kim An