Aerial Dawn (Fiammetta Venner)

This breathtaking aerial photograph captures the sun rising over a landscape dotted with patches of greenery and water. The sun's rays pierce through the clouds, casting a golden glow over the scene below. The high vantage point provides a sweeping view of the terrain, highlighting the natural beauty and diversity of the landscape. The image evokes a sense of tranquility and awe, capturing the serene and majestic beauty of a sunrise from above.

The photo was taken at the junction between the provinces of Kampot and Kiên Giang, at the border between Vietnam and Cambodia.

The border between Cambodia and Vietnam has been a source of territorial disputes since the 15th century, marking the decline of the Khmer Empire and the rise of the Đại Việt. This boundary delineates two distinct cultural worlds: the Theravāda Buddhist realm of Cambodia and the Confucian-influenced Vietnam.

Historically, Vietnam's southward expansion, known as the "Nam tiến," led to the annexation of the Champa kingdom and parts of the Khmer territory. This expansion was driven by demographic pressures and resulted in significant territorial gains for Vietnam, including the Mekong Delta.

The establishment of French Indochina temporarily halted Vietnamese expansion, though initial colonial adjustments often favored Vietnam. Despite various treaties and agreements, border disputes persisted, fueled by Cambodian irredentism and Vietnamese territorial ambitions.

Post-independence tensions continued, with conflicts arising during the Vietnam War and the subsequent rule of the Khmer Rouge. The border disputes were marked by violence and shifting alliances, reflecting deep-seated historical grievances.

In recent years, efforts have been made to resolve these disputes, culminating in a 2005 agreement and further negotiations. However, tensions occasionally resurface

Kampot. Kiên Giang. Vietnam. Cambodia. Photography : © Fiammetta Venner / REIA