Cambodia PR Team Responses Regarding Cambodia’s Stance in Resolving Border Issues with Thailand June 12, 2026
Cambodia PR Team Responses Regarding Cambodia’s Stance in Resolving Border Issues with Thailand June 12, 2026
Cambodia PR Team Responses Regarding Cambodia’s Stance in Resolving Border Issues with Thailand
June 12, 2026
Q1: Does strengthening national defense and producing military equipment domestically indicate that Cambodia is preparing for war, as alleged by Thai media outlets?
A: Strengthening national defense and producing military equipment domestically does not indicate that Cambodia is preparing for war, contrary to allegations by Thai media. Strengthening defense capabilities is a sovereign right of every nation to protect its country and citizens, which is a normal practice for all countries. Samdech Techo Hun Sen has clearly stated that domestic military manufacture is intended to equip the armed forces and reduce dependence on foreign imports, not to invade other nations.
In fact, Cambodia has never deployed its troops beyond its borders to wage war with any country, except for participation in peacekeeping missions under the United Nations umbrella. Therefore, strengthening national defense is preparatory self-defense, not for the purpose of preparing for acts of aggression against others.
Q2: Why does Cambodia choose to use international law and mechanisms instead of using force to resolve the border conflict with Thailand?
A: Cambodia chooses to use international law and mechanisms instead of force to resolve the conflict because Cambodia believes that solutions based on international law are fair, sustainable and supported by the international community.
In fact, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has affirmed that Cambodia adheres to international law, treaties, existing agreements, and peaceful mechanisms to ensure that sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the international border are respected. The initiation of the compulsory conciliation mechanism under the UNCLOS framework has also demonstrated that Cambodia seeks a just and lasting solution based on legal grounds, not through the use of force. Furthermore, it shows that Cambodia is a state that respects and values the international order.
Q3: What benefits can a peaceful resolution bring to civilians affected by the border tensions?
A: A peaceful resolution is the most important way to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians and facilitate the recovery of their livelihoods affected by the conflict. Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has emphasized that respecting international law, implementing the ceasefire, and seeking a peaceful solution will help restore confidence, ensure lasting peace, and allow displaced civilians to return to their homes safely and with dignity.
Conversely, if the conflict continues to drag on or erupts into armed clashes, those who will be most affected are civilians, whose safety and livelihoods will be harmed. Therefore, peace is the common interest of all citizens.
