Cambodia denies Thailand’s territorial claims
A shipping-container barricade put up by Thai forces on Cambodian territory. KT/Khem Sovannara
#National
Synopsis: Government spokesman Pen Bona says border developments remain a central focus of talks between Cambodian leaders and foreign counterparts in Phnom Penh.
Cambodia rejected unilateral territorial claims in its border dispute with Thailand, vowing to resolve the issue peacefully under international law, as the government outlined a week of heightened diplomatic engagement and domestic intervention measures.
In a daily briefing, government spokesperson Pen Bona said border developments remained a central focus of discussions between Cambodian leaders and foreign counterparts in Phnom Penh.
He added that Senate President and Acting Head of State Hun Sen has reiterated Cambodia’s position on maintaining an effective and lasting ceasefire, while continuing to pursue dialogue through existing bilateral mechanisms with Thailand.
Cambodia has also lodged a protest against illegal activities by Thai forces in areas including Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey provinces, underscoring it does not recognise any unilateral border demarcations or territorial claims.
Cambodia added that borders must not be altered by force.
Thai armed forces on April 4 undertook land-clearing activities near the Preah Vihear Temple, north of Keo Sikha Kiri Svara Pagoda. Thai troops also laid about 100 metre of barbed wire and deployed armoured personnel carriers in the Bosbov-Choam Tae area. These actions are neither defensive nor consistent with the December 27, 2025 Joint Statement of the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC).
“Cambodia does not recognise any boundary line or territorial claim unilaterally asserted by Thailand, and stresses that the recent activities shall not prejudice Cambodia’s legal rights regarding its international border,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a press statement.
“The Royal Government of Cambodia demands Thailand immediately cease all such unlawful activities, refrain from further unilateral actions, and work to de-escalate tensions, foster mutual trust, and preserve peace and good neighbourliness along the border,” it added.
Bona said the government expressed full support for the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), led by Malaysia and later by the Philippines, which continues to monitor and report on the implementation of agreements and ceasefire arrangements. Cambodia also welcomed the Philippines’ upcoming leadership of the AOT in 2026, with Vietnam contributing additional personnel to the mission.
– Khmer Times-
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