France Closely Monitoring Cambodia-Thailand Border Tensions, Urges Peaceful Resolution

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.30, 2025) — France is closely monitoring the ongoing border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand and supports a peaceful resolution through bilateral dialogue, ASEAN mechanisms and adherence to international law, French Ambassador Olivier Richard said during a courtesy meeting with Cambodian National Assembly President Samdech Khuon Sudary.

Sudary thanked French President Emmanuel Macron and the French people for their concern following the July 24 border incursion, which Cambodian officials say violated a ceasefire agreement and resulted in civilian injuries. Macron had welcomed the ceasefire, brokered in Malaysia on July 28, and expressed hope for a peaceful settlement. Cambodian officials have since accused Thailand of renewed encroachments.

“The border issue is not new,” Sudary said, blaming Thailand’s refusal to use maps recognized under the Franco-Siamese treaties and the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding. “Cambodia remains committed to transforming its borders into zones of peace, cooperation and development.”

She said Prime Minister Hun Manet has prioritized a peaceful resolution, citing Cambodia’s painful history of war. The prime minister has shared the country’s position with Macron and other international partners.

The two officials also discussed bilateral ties, praising the historical friendship between Cambodia and France. Ambassador Richard confirmed Macron’s planned visit to Cambodia in 2026 for the 20th Francophonie Summit in Siem Reap, where France hopes to deepen cooperation in trade, culture, healthcare and other sectors.

Sudary said the visit would be a “special opportunity” to elevate the partnership. She noted frequent exchanges between leaders of both countries, including visits by King Norodom Sihamoni, former Prime Minister Hun Sen, and Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet. Sudary herself visited France in 2024 and plans to attend an international peace forum there this October.

She also highlighted a Memorandum of Understanding between the two national assemblies, under which France supports Cambodia’s transition to a digital parliament and facilitates short-term exchange programs for Cambodian parliamentary staff.