Cambodia steps up global diplomacy amid border tensions with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, Feb 24, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has intensified diplomatic engagement at the highest international levels as tensions with Thailand persist over disputed border areas, government spokesman Pen Bona said Tuesday.

At his daily press briefing, Bona stressed that protecting territorial integrity remains the government’s “top priority,” with diplomacy carried out “actively and consistently” both at home and abroad.

He said the Royal Government’s actions reflect a firm commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and protecting civilians affected by the dispute.

Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet is currently undertaking a series of high-level meetings following visits to the United States and Europe.

In Geneva, he met UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UN human rights chief Volker Türk, UNGA president Annalena Baerbock, and ICRC vice-president Gilles Carbonnier. He also held talks with Timor-Leste’s president.

The Cambodia-Thailand border issue featured prominently in those discussions. Hun Manet called for full implementation of bilateral agreements, peaceful resolution in line with international law, and safe return of displaced civilians.

He emphasized that peace remains Cambodia’s guiding principle, even as Cambodia continues to face what it describes as unilateral actions by Thai forces.

Cambodia reiterated its legal position based on international law, the principle of uti possidetis juris, and historical treaties and boundary records.

Officials said Phnom Penh does not recognize any modification of the Cambodia-Thailand border resulting from force or unilateral action, warning that such moves undermine regional stability.

Bona added that Cambodia’s diplomatic outreach is designed not only to defend sovereignty but also to build international understanding of the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

Tens of thousands of civilians remain displaced, and Phnom Penh has urged partners to support monitoring mechanisms and humanitarian assistance.

He stressed that Cambodia’s foreign policy will continue to combine firm defense of sovereignty with active participation in multilateral forums, reinforcing the country’s role as a responsible member of the international community.