PM Hun Manet Highlights Border Tensions at Global Peace Gathering, says Pen Bona

PHNOM PENH, 20 February 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian government spokesman Pen Bona said the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace sent a strong signal on the need to end armed conflict, protect civilians and promote stability.

Speaking at a press briefing, Bona stressed that the gathering underscored Cambodia’s own history of war and its long-standing emphasis on peace. He said the Royal Government consistently prioritises peaceful dispute resolution in line with international law.

Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet joined the Board of Peace as a founding member at the invitation of US President Donald Trump. According to the government, Cambodia’s participation reflects its commitment to contributing to global peace efforts.

Cambodia has deployed peacekeepers under United Nations missions in several conflict zones. In an interview with international media in Washington, Hun Manet expressed hope that the Board would complement existing mechanisms and help ease tensions worldwide.

The prime minister also referred to the long-running border dispute with Thailand. Phnom Penh accuses Thai armed forces of occupying positions along parts of the frontier, including areas it considers Cambodian territory. Thailand has not publicly responded to those allegations.

Cambodia says it is protesting what it describes as violations of its territorial integrity, while continuing to uphold a ceasefire and agreements reached with Thailand, including a Joint Statement signed on 27 December 2025. Under that accord, both sides tasked the Joint Boundary Commission with measuring and demarcating the land boundary.

The Cambodian government maintains its claim to the border as defined by historical Franco-Siamese treaties and related documentation, rejecting any changes imposed by force.
The Board of Peace held its inaugural meeting on 19 February at the Donald J. Trump United States Institute of Peace in Washington, attended by leaders from several countries. President Trump welcomed participants and referenced the Cambodia-Thailand dispute in his opening remarks.

The meeting formally launched the Board’s mandate, following a UN Security Council resolution adopted in November 2025 aimed at promoting peace and supporting reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Leaders at the event discussed stability and security as foundations for regional and global development.