Cambodia Protests Thai Activities in Disputed Border Areas

PHNOM PENH, June 1, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has lodged a formal protest against Thailand, accusing its neighbour of violating sovereignty and territorial integrity through construction and cultural activities in disputed frontier zones occupied by Thai forces since December 2025, the foreign ministry said Monday.

The complaint cites the building of at least 36 Buddha statues and two flagpoles in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, part of what Phnom Penh described as a wider pattern of roadworks, barriers, and tourism events carried out by the Thai military after a ceasefire agreed on December 27.

Officials said the actions breach commitments made at the third Special Meeting of the General Border Committee, which called for maintaining troop positions and avoiding moves that could affect the demarcation process.

Cambodia warned the activities risk undermining the work of the Joint Boundary Commission, tasked with surveying and marking the frontier.

“The Royal Government of Cambodia does not recognise any boundary line established through the use of force or unilateral claims,” the statement said, adding that the measures would not affect Cambodia’s legal position on its international border.

Cambodia urged Thailand to halt construction and comply with the GBC joint statement, stressing the need to restore trust, maintain stability along the frontier and strengthen good‑neighbourly relations.

The ministry said both sides should act in line with international law, the UN Charter, ASEAN principles and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.