Prime Minister Hun Sen vowed on Friday to oppose foreign countries’ interference in Cambodia’s internal affairs and to thwart any attempts to topple the government through a “colour revolution” that could cause social chaos in the Kingdom.

The pledge was made in conjunction with the 65th anniversary of Cambodia’s independence from France and the establishment of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces.

Speaking to thousands at the ceremony, which was presided over by King Norodom Sihamoni, at the Independence Monument on Friday, Hun Sen said the government will do anything in its power to maintain peace.

“The government is determined to protect national independence, peace, sovereignty, territorial integrity and social achievements to enhance national prestige."

“We are firmly opposed to [foreign] interference in [Cambodia’s] internal affairs and any activities relating to a Colour Revolution or incitement that causes social turmoil or political instability,” he said.

The prime minister said the government will continue to solve land and maritime border issues with neighbouring countries based on international law.

It will also implement border development strategies that will transform the once-contentious area into a peaceful place in cooperation with the country’s neighbours.

On national security, the prime minister said the government will continue to prevent crimes including financing terrorism, money laundering, human and sex trafficking and other transnational crimes.

Meanwhile, King Norodom Sihamoni applauded the prime minister's leadership.

“Cambodia and its people have admiringly changed. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen is a clever prime minister who has used the right policies to bring about peace and to win Cambodia fame on the international stage,” said the King.

King Sihamoni also took the occasion to call for national unity, an appeal viewed by some analysts as a reference to the country's political divide which has seen opposition leader Sam Rainsy fleeing to France to avoid various criminal charges and former court-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) president Kem Sokha in pre-trial detention for treason.

“I would like to appeal to Cambodians across the country to unite under the Constitution and Rule of Law in order to jointly protect and build the country in all sectors,” said the King.

Sociopolitical analyst Ly Srey Sros said Prime Minister Hun Sen's pledge was meant to gain political advantage.

“The [prime minister's] statement is made to get the people's attention on the government's achievements and to garner their support,” she said.