Bona: Cambodia rejects border changes ‘by force’ amid Thailand dispute

PHNOM PENH, Mar 24, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has reaffirmed its refusal to recognise any border changes imposed by force, stressing that it will continue to pursue a diplomatic solution to its dispute with Thailand.

Government spokesman Pen Bona told reporters Tuesday that Phnom Penh maintained a “firm position” on protecting its internationally recognised frontier, as established by the Franco Siamese Boundary Commission and upheld under international law.

He said Cambodia’s stance was rooted in the principle of uti possidetis juris and supported by treaties, maps and demarcation records agreed between the two countries.

Bona added that Cambodia remained committed to the ceasefire and provisions outlined in a joint statement issued on December 27, 2025, which emphasised resolving the dispute peacefully through the Joint Boundary Commission mechanism.

“The Royal Government continues its active diplomatic efforts without interruption to achieve a correct, just and lasting peaceful solution,” he said.

He stressed that safeguarding territorial integrity and protecting citizens remained the government’s highest priority, noting recent developments along the border had become a key topic in domestic and international discussions.

In recent days, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other institutions have held meetings with foreign partners, with the border situation featuring prominently. Authorities are also working across sectors to address the needs of displaced people.

Separately, the European Union said it remained committed to supporting access to quality education for all children in Cambodia, including those affected by conflict and displacement.

Last month, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva that preventing tens of thousands of civilians from returning home safely and with dignity constituted a serious human rights violation.

Cambodia’s diplomatic efforts reflect its broader aim of safeguarding national interests while drawing international attention to the plight of displaced communities, including children still unable to return to school.