Daily Update from Local Newspapers January 22, 2014

1.                               Politics/Human Rights

Land Rights Activists and the 11 Union Leaders Released After Detaining Almost 7 Hours

                                                                                                        

The land rights activists, the 11 union leaders and Mr. Rong Chhon, President of Independent Teacher Association, had been detained by the competent authorities while holding a rally in front of the US Embassy and marching to bring a petition to the French and UK Embassy so as to seek for intervention to release the 23 civilians who had been arrested in jail during a brutal crackdown this month. The activists and union leaders had been sent to the Phnom Penh Police Commissionaire for questioning and were freed by authorities after being educated for almost 7 hours. (Rasmei Kampuchea, 22 January 2014)

2.                 Diplomatic Issue

3.                 Economy/Development

4.                 Korea’s Interest in Cambodia

Korean Students Help to Repair Taekwondo Training Building in Boeung Trobek School

                                                                                                        

The 30 Korean students had contributed their money to repair the old Taekwondo training building in Boeung Trobek School. They had spent around 4,000 USD for purchasing judo mat and provided another 3,000 USD for the building improvement. In addition, both Cambodian and Korean students had participated in the labor to improve the building together. Mr. Choi Yong Sok, Taekwondo instructor, said he has instructed in Cambodia for 17 years, adding that he was please to see Cambodian female athlete received a golden medal during the 27^th SEA Games, which has brought honor to Cambodia and him. This success enables him to have a higher willingness to fulfill other lacking points when Cambodia host a SEA Games in 2023. (Rasmei Kampuchea, 22 January 2014)