Cambodia Reaffirms Firm Stance on Sovereignty, Rejects Use of Force

PHNOM PENH, Feb 3, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has reiterated its commitment to defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity while seeking peaceful resolution of border issues with Thailand through international law and diplomacy.

Government spokesperson Pen Bona said Tuesday the position was reflected in both statements and actions, citing Prime Minister Hun Manet’s January 31 visit to displaced residents in Preah Vihear province. Hun Manet assured citizens that the ceasefire agreement involved no exchange or loss of territory.

Bona stressed that border measurement, management and dispute resolution must be handled through diplomatic and technical mechanisms, noting the Cambodia–Thailand boundary is internationally recognised.

He added that while legal processes take time, they are essential for lasting peace.
The government is also addressing the livelihoods of displaced citizens, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued multiple protest notes and statements to Thailand.

At the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in Cebu on January 29, Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn warned that certain actions remained inconsistent with the December 27 ceasefire statement, undermining sovereignty and risking renewed tensions.

He urged ASEAN partners to support peaceful resolution in line with international law and the principle of non-use of force.

Cambodia’s Secretariat of Border Affairs has also called for joint demarcation teams, reaffirming that the border was established by the Indochina–Siam Boundary Commission and governed by treaties and international law.

Officials stressed Cambodia does not recognise any border changes resulting from force.