Knights of the Celtic Cross Partner with Khmer Empire Peace Organization to Promote Harmony
Rev. Fr. Marcus M. Ramsey, St. Lazarus Macau
Richard Saaunders, Phnom Penh
The Knights of the Celtic Cross (KOCC) have announced a new partnership with the Khmer Empire Peace Organization (KEPO), led by His Excellency Serey Sam. Recently returned from exile in Denmark, Serey Sam has been actively pursuing peace initiatives aimed at diminishing tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts.
Serey Sam, once an exiled dissident and founder of the Khmer National Liberation Front (KNLF), received a royal pardon earlier this year following the dissolution of his organization. The KNLF had been designated a “terrorist group” due to its alleged attempts to destabilize the Cambodian government. Serey, who expressed remorse for his past actions, reached out to government officials with a conciliatory letter, emphasizing his commitment to fostering national unity and reconciliation.
As Serey returns to Cambodia, he joins forces with KOCC and KEPO to embark on a mission focused on peace-building efforts. This collaboration aims to address and mitigate the historical and ongoing conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand, looking ahead to 2026 and beyond. The partnership underscores a collective commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and cooperation rather than conflict.
Both KOCC and KEPO recognize the importance of engaging communities in their peace advocacy work. Together, they plan to organize forums and initiatives that promote understanding and collaboration between the two nations, seeking to heal divisions created by decades of strife.
Serey has articulated that the path to peace requires a willingness to forgive past grievances. His leadership is expected to play a crucial role as he rallies support for peaceful resolutions and encourages former adversaries to consider alternatives to violence. "It is essential that we learn from the past and work together for a united future," Serey stated in a recent interview.
In this spirit, KOCC and KEPO aim to gather support from local leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens to build a broader movement dedicated to sustainable peace. The organizations are set to launch campaigns in schools and communities to educate individuals about the benefits of peace and the importance of diplomatic relations.
With the backdrop of the Khmer New Year, Serey plans to participate in traditional prayers, symbolizing his commitment to cultural harmony and spiritual healing as part of the peace process. His participation not only aims to reconnect with his roots but also to inspire countless Cambodians to envision a future characterized by tranquility and cooperation.
The joint efforts of KOCC and KEPO, under the leadership of His Excellency Serey Sam, herald a hopeful new chapter in Cambodian diplomacy. By advocating for peace and unity, they aim to carve a path toward long-lasting resolution of conflicts, ensuring a brighter future for both Cambodia and Thailand.