Mr. President: Don't forget to say Hello to the King

Mr. President: Don't forget to say Hello to the King

AP reported that, “White House officials emphasized that Obama would not have visited Cambodia had it not been hosting two regional summit meetings the U.S. attends, a rare admonishment of a country on its own soil.”

It is understandable that Cambodia may not be good enough to earn respect from the U.S president at this time. However, America can be tough only with Hun Sen, the Cambodia’s strongman, but it should not be so tough with the Cambodian people and tradition. Cambodians had suffered enough from some of the American past policies that may have contributed to such atrocity.  

While he is already there, in the Cambodian Capital, it would be a nice gesture if President Obama would show some respects to Cambodian people by stopping by to say hello to Cambodia’s King and offer personal condolences for the passing of the late King. 

Better yet, to help rebuild U.S.--Cambodia’s relationship Premier Hun Sen should help make an arrangement to have such a visit possible.  

Cambodians will be more resentful with the Americans if President Obama is seen to be disrespectful, arrogant or snobbish to Cambodia. In addition, Hun Sen will be able to use such attitude as an alibi to justify his move--- against the United States or to become closer to China.