Ministry of Culture of Fine Arts on behalf of The Royal Government of Cambodia has reached an accord with the family of the late Douglas Latchford in September 2020 wherein all Cambodian artifacts in the possession of the Latchford family will be returned to Cambodia. As part of this agreement, the Cambodian team led by H.E. Hun Many, Chairman of the Commission 7 of the National Assembly in charge of Education, Youth, Sports, Cult and Religious Affairs, Culture and Tourism has arranged the momentous return of the amazing 77 Cambodian pieces of jewellery collection from the Latchford family. This is in addition to other stone and bronze artefacts already returned from the UK to Cambodia in September 2021.
The Royal Government of Cambodia expresses its appreciation to the Government of the United Kingdom, for its goodwill and cooperation in facilitating the return of these artifacts to the Royal Government of Cambodia in close cooperation with other countries around the world.
Her Excellency Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine arts commented on “the importance of peace and political stability through the win-win policy and the wise leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hunsen, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia that has given the opportunity for Cambodia to return the souls of Khmer ancestors and invaluable treasures which departed from the homeland for many years during the decades of war.”. The Minister further noted that “the repatriation of these national treasures opens a new era of understanding and scholarship about the Angkorian empire and its significance to the world.”
H.E., Hun Many commented “it is an honour to lead the delegation to return these priceless national treasures to our home country.” He also thanked the Royal Government of Cambodia, especially the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts under the leadership of Lok Chumteav Pheourng Sackona, and relevant partners who have assisted and worked together in achieving these brilliant results.
