Cambodia Denies Claim PM Hun Manet Set Post-New Year Border Talks With Thailand

PHNOM PENH, March 11, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has rejected reports in Thai media that Prime Minister Hun Manet said negotiations over disputed territory with Thailand would be held after the New Year.

A government statement issued March 10 said the reports cited Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, who claimed Hun Manet had posted on social media about delaying talks until after holiday celebrations.

Cambodia insisted the prime minister had “never made any statement or posted on social media” suggesting the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) would wait until then.

It reiterated support for the bilateral joint statement of December 27, 2025, and said it wanted the JBC to resume work “at the earliest opportunity” to resolve border issues and maintain peace.

Since a ceasefire took effect at midday on December 27, the State Secretariat of Border Affairs had sent five formal letters to Thailand requesting joint survey teams to conduct on-site measurements and continue technical work.

Cambodian government said the clarification was issued to ensure the public was accurately informed of Cambodia’s position.