UN Coordinator Backs Cambodia’s Use of Compulsory Conciliation in Maritime Dispute

By Hun Sirivadh

PHNOM PENH, June 4, 2026 (KPT) — The United Nations (UN) has voiced support for Cambodia’s decision to invoke compulsory conciliation under international maritime law to resolve its dispute with Thailand, officials said Thursday.

UN Resident Coordinator Vladanka Andreeva conveyed the backing during talks with National Assembly President Samdech Khuon Sudary, stressing the UN stands ready to provide legal advisory and technical assistance if requested.

Following the meeting, Assembly spokesperson Keo Piseth told reporters the UN commended Cambodia’s commitment to multilateralism and international law, noting both sides retain the right to seek consultations and support under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “The United Nations will respond to these needs within the scope of its institutional framework,” Piseth said.

He added Cambodia’s reliance on the UN mechanism reflects its enduring faith in the organization to safeguard justice and stability. Sudary thanked the UN for its role in development and fairness, highlighting that parliament’s ratification of UNCLOS in January and the government’s June decision to trigger conciliation underscored Cambodia’s belief in multilateral solutions.

The diplomatic move follows Cambodia’s June 2 notification to the UN Secretary‑General and to Thailand, formally initiating the process after Bangkok withdrew from a 2001 maritime memorandum of understanding in early May.

Officials said the step demonstrates Cambodia’s determination to resolve overlapping maritime boundary claims peacefully, reinforcing its stance that disputes should be settled through international law and the multilateral system.