Cambodia’s Hun Manet Seeks Macron’s Support in Border Dispute with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, Feb 5, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has appealed to French President Emmanuel Macron for assistance in clarifying the kingdom’s border with Thailand, requesting access to historical and technical documents from the Protectorate era.

In a letter dated February 4, Hun Manet thanked France for its role in maintaining calm along the frontier and supporting peaceful dispute resolution under international law.

He highlighted France’s longstanding contributions to Cambodia’s peace and development, and its influence as a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

The premier asked Paris to provide technical expertise, advisory support and archival materials to help resolve the boundary issue, stressing Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful settlement without the use of force.

Officials said the move reflects Phnom Penh’s determination to secure a lasting solution that allows Cambodian and Thai communities to coexist peacefully.

Cambodia formally submitted a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in June 2025 over disputed sites including the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch and Ta Krabei temples, as well as the Mom Bei area.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, announcing the letter on June, 2025, noted the coincidence with the 63rd anniversary of the ICJ’s landmark 1962 ruling in Cambodia’s favor in the Preah Vihear Temple case.

He said the government was once again turning to the ICJ as a lawful mechanism after bilateral talks failed to resolve sensitive issues that risk sparking armed conflict.

“Cambodia only seeks justice, accuracy and clarity in the demarcation of its borders, so that future generations will not face ongoing disputes,” he declared.

Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has reiterated that the country does not accept the ICJ’s compulsory jurisdiction, a position it has held since 1960 and one shared by more than 100 UN member states.