Behind the curtain: Uncovering the calculated plans of perfidious Siam

Dr. Kin Phea is director of International Relations Institute at Royal Academy of Cambodia. Supplied

#opinion

Be vigilant against Thailand’s calculated encroachment; their strategic diversion aims to seize our borderlands, while extending toward the Cambodia-Thailand Overlapping Claims Area (OCA). By asserting de facto management over occupied zones, they are ruthlessly engineering a fait accompli to legitimise their theft.

We must remain unwavering in our protest against this blatant territorial violation, steadfastly defending our sovereignty across both our land and maritime domains. The 2001 MOU game is another strategic diversion.

This move likely reflects Thailand’s internal political instability. The current Thai government is riding an ultra-nationalist and extremist wave to gain popular support. Utilising nationalism for domestic support or bowing to security pressures undermines bilateral agreements, turning international legal frameworks into tools for short-term domestic political gain.

Cambodia consistently upholds international law. Both leadership and the public view any unilateral withdrawal as a violation of signed agreements, maintaining a firm stance that disputes must be resolved through peaceful, legal channels.

This development negatively impacts diplomatic relations and risks fuelling extremist nationalist sentiment. Disregarding formal agreements erodes mutual trust, destabilising regional harmony and failing to serve the long-term strategic interests of either nation.

Leaders on both sides face significant political risks if tensions escalate. Prioritising confrontation over diplomacy invites international scrutiny and risks internal instability, whereas upholding agreements preserves regional prestige and essential economic cooperation.

Historically, maritime and border disputes have often been manipulated for domestic political gain in Thailand. Whenever it faces domestic political instability and economic depression, it has frequently diverted its crises to the border with Cambodia as well. Conversely, Cambodia remains steadfast in its commitment to international law and bilateral MOUs, rejecting such political instrumentalisation.

Negotiations are highly viable if both sides demonstrate genuine political will and respect for the 2001 MoU. Progress requires a foundation of integrity, adherence to international legal norms, and mutual commitment to diplomacy. As a peace-loving nation, Cambodia has always been ready for genuine negotiations based on international law and bilateral MOUs.

The best path forward is strictly adhering to the 2001 MoU through sincere dialogue. Both sides must reject inflammatory nationalist rhetoric and focus on shared regional development to ensure lasting peace, stability, friendship and cooperation.

Dr. Kin Phea is director of International Relations Institute at Royal Academy of Cambodia. The views and opinions expressed are his own.

-Phnom Penh Post-