Cambodia Reaffirms Firm Stance on Border with Thailand Amid Fishermen Detention

PHNOM PENH, Feb 23, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has reiterated its firm position on the Cambodia–Thailand border following the detention of three Cambodian fishermen by Thai authorities, government spokesman Pen Bona said Monday.

Bona stressed that Cambodia maintains its border in line with historical agreements, including the Franco-Siamese Commission, the Indo-China–Siam Border Commission, relevant treaties, maps and demarcation records recognized by both countries.

“Cambodia does not recognize any changes to the border resulting from the use of force,” he said, adding that the government continues to uphold ceasefire provisions outlined in the joint statement signed on December 27, 2025.

The comments came after the Thai navy detained three Cambodian citizens and seized their fishing vessel on February 22, about 7.2 nautical miles off Koh Yor in Koh Kong province.

Bona described the actions as a violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty, territorial waters and international law.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the incident as a “clear violation” and demanded the immediate release of the fishermen and their boat, while urging Bangkok to halt unauthorized naval patrols and prevent similar incidents in the future.