Thai minister speaks out on Cambodia's withdrawal from SEA Games 33: 'They have the right, we are not affected'

Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakon, Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, has spoken out about the Cambodian sports delegation's withdrawal from the 33rd SEA Games.

On the morning of December 10th, the Cambodian sports delegation officially sent a letter to the Southeast Asian Sports Federation (NAEF), requesting to withdraw from the 33rd SEA Games. The Secretary-General of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), Mr. Vath Chamroeun, stated: “This decision was made with utmost caution. We deeply appreciate the welcome, hospitality, warmth, and sportsmanship that the NAC and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) have shown us throughout this time. We apologize for any inconvenience this early departure may cause and sincerely thank you for your understanding and support.”

Just hours after the Cambodian sports delegation's decision, Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakon stated: "The SEA Games 33 Organizing Committee has officially received the information. At the same time, we respect Cambodia's decision to withdraw after participating in the opening ceremony on December 9th."

Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakon stated that he respects the decision of the Cambodian sports delegation.

PHOTO: DONG NGUYEN KHANG

The organizers of the 33rd SEA Games continued to provide full support to the Cambodian delegation during their departure from Thailand.

The unexpected withdrawal of the Cambodian sports delegation on the very first day of competition has also significantly impacted the 33rd SEA Games. Some sports may no longer have enough teams or athletes to compete according to the standard format, leading to changes or reductions in the number of events.

However, Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakon affirmed that the SEA Games 33 Organizing Committee already had a plan in place. The Minister of Tourism and Sports emphasized: “Cambodia’s withdrawal will certainly not affect this SEA Games. The tournament will proceed as planned. Moreover, I believe that after this event, the people of Thailand as well as fans throughout Southeast Asia will continue to support sports.”

“As the host country, we have provided the best possible conditions since the Cambodian athletes and officials arrived in Thailand, but withdrawal is the right of each country. When they leave, we will also provide full support,” added Atthakorn Sirilatthayakon.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/bo-truong-thai-lan-phat-ngon-vu-campuchia-rut-khoi-sea-games-33-ho-co-quyen-chung-toi-khong-bi-anh-huong-185251210141216607.htm