Cambodia reaffirms border stance with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, Jan 19, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has reaffirmed its determination to defend its international border with Thailand, saying the boundary is firmly established under international law and cannot be altered by force.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said Phnom Penh would uphold the border as defined by the Indochina-Siam Boundary Commission and related treaties, maps and agreements. He stressed Cambodia did not recognise any changes resulting from the use of force.

The comments followed a statement late Saturday from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which protested against what it described as Thai military actions that had altered security conditions near civilian areas.

According to the ministry, Thai troops installed barbed-wire fencing near the Thmor Da international border gate in Pursat province on January 16. Cambodia said the move entrenched military control and hindered efforts to reduce tensions and allow civilians to return safely to their homes.

Phnom Penh said the measures were inconsistent with de-escalation commitments under a joint communiqué adopted at the General Border Committee meeting on December 27.

Cambodia urged Thailand to fully implement the agreement and reiterated its commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, in line with international law and bilateral arrangements.