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| Amid the brewing tensions over border control, Cambodia formally backed out of the SEA Games. THASOC (file photo) |
MANILA--Cambodia has formally withdrawn its participation from the Southeast Asian Games as tensions against Thailand continue.
In a letter sent to the SEA Games Federation, National Olympic Committee of Cambodia secretary general Vath Chamroeun said that the withdrawal is in line with concerns back home amid the already bloody border dispute between the two countries.
"On behalf of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia, I regret to inform you that, due to serious concerns and requests from the families of our athletes to have their relatives return home immediately, NOCC must withdraw all of our delegation and arrange for their prompt return to Cambodia for safety reasons," said Chamroeun's letter addressed to SEAGF chief executive officer Dato Seri Chaiyapak Siriwat.
Stemming from the ambiguity of an old court ruling favoring Cambodia, the gunfire battle between both countries continued even hours before the SEA Games' opening ceremonies.
Despite being aware of the ongoing beef between the Thais and Cambodians, Chamroeun still thanked Siriwat for the warm welcome given to them in Bangkok and other SEA Games host cities.
"This decision was not made lightly. We greatly appreciate the hospitality, warmth, and spirit of sportsmanship extended to our athletes by THASOC (Thailand SEA Games Committee) and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand throughout their stay. We apologize for any inconvenience this early departure may cause and remain grateful for your understanding and support," Chamroeun further wrote.
NOCC is currently coordinating with the SEAGF and THASOC regarding giving the Cambodian delegation's safe flight back to Phnom Penh.
Cambodia, the 2023 SEA Games host, only had 84 athletes competing for this year's edition of the biennial meet.
