Cambodia Reiterates Firm Stance on International Border, Rejects Changes by Force

PHNOM PENH, June 16, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has reaffirmed its firm position on protecting its internationally recognised border with Thailand, rejecting any attempt to alter boundaries through the use of force, government spokesman Pen Bona said Tuesday.

Bona said Cambodia’s stance is based on the frontier inherited from the Franco‑Siamese Boundary Commission and consistent with international law, particularly the principle of uti possidetis juris, which upholds the inviolability of inherited boundaries.

He said Cambodia continues to respect Franco‑Siamese treaties, official maps, demarcation records and other agreements mutually recognised by both sides.

“As a country that values peace and respects international law, Cambodia categorically rejects any alteration of its borders resulting from the use of force,” Bona said.

He also highlighted Cambodia’s efforts to resolve outstanding maritime boundary issues peacefully. On June 2, Phnom Penh initiated compulsory conciliation proceedings under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea regarding overlapping claims with Thailand.

Bona said the process underscores the importance of international law and reinforces peaceful mechanisms for resolving disputes.

His remarks came as Cambodian authorities renewed calls for Thailand to resume joint border survey and demarcation activities.

The State Secretariat of Border Affairs said Cambodia has repeatedly proposed meetings of the Joint Boundary Commission and requested deployment of survey teams, but Bangkok has postponed citing elections and cabinet procedures.

The delays contradict previous agreements and continue to affect civilians. The Ministry of Interior reported more than 28,000 Cambodians remain displaced despite a ceasefire holding since late 2025, underscoring the lasting impact of tensions along the frontier.