Cambodia to Lodge Strong Protest Over Thai Military Actions Undermining Border De-escalation

Phnom Penh, Jan 17, 2026 (KPT) –The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation will issue a strong diplomatic protest to Thailand over actions by Thai armed forces that could undermine de-escalation efforts and affect civilian security along the shared border, according to Ministry officials on January 17, 2026.

The formal protest follows yesterday’s reinstallation of razor wire barriers by Thai military forces around houses and shops owned by Chinese businessmen in the Thmor Da area of Pursatprovince, which was illegally occupied by Thai troops. Earlier, the Chinese shop owners had removed the barriers from in front of their shops.

This latest actions by Thai military forces is clearly contrary to Item I-4 of the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee, signed on December 27, 2025, which states that “both parties agree to allow civilians living in the affected border areas to return, as soon as possible, without hindrance and in safety and dignity, to their homes and normal livelihoods in the areas within their own territory.”

The Cambodian government has expressed serious concern over Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in light of ongoing activities carried out by Thai military personnel that may alter the security environment in or around civilian areas, consolidate military control over the occupied areas, or create new facts on the ground.

This situation, a Foreign Ministry official said, could prejudice not only the safe and dignified return of civilians to their homes and properties, but also ongoing boundary demarcation efforts.

It is important to recall that the Joint Statement of December 27, 2025, was concluded as a comprehensive framework aimed at de-escalation, the protection of civilians, and the gradual restoration of normal civilian life in affected border areas.

Therefore, all of its provisions must be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner. It is apparent that the Joint Statement was not intended to justify or sustain a military presence in civilian areas, nor to entrench situations arising from the threat or use of force.

Cambodia has called on Thailand to fully and in good faith implement all provisions of the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special GBC Meeting, as well as other relevant agreements and arrangements aimed at de-escalating tensions, restoring peaceand stability along the shared border.

Cambodia has repeatedly reaffirmed its consistent commitment to resolving border and boundary issues with Thailand through peaceful means, in accordance with international law and bilateral agreements.