PM Clarifies Purpose of Cambodia-Thailand Border Survey

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov.25,2025) — Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet on Tuesday clarified that Cambodia’s ongoing temporary border survey and demarcation with Thailand is not intended to adjust territorial boundaries but to establish accurate lines based on historical documents and international law.

“Border issues are complex matters that have persisted for hundreds of years. We must work together so that citizens of both countries can live peacefully along the border in the long term,” Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said.

He cited government efforts to find long-term solutions for villages affected by past disputes, including Chhouk Chhieng and Prey Chan, stressing that such issues must be resolved peacefully under existing treaties and agreements.

In line with the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Border Commission, both countries have agreed to deploy survey teams to conduct temporary demarcation along markers 42-47 in Banteay Meanchey province and markers 52-59 in Battambang province.

The work continues joint technical surveys that began in 2006 to locate 74 markers originally set by the Franco-Siamese Boundary Commissions between 1919 and 1920.

Hun Manet said the temporary demarcation is part of a step-by-step process toward permanent demarcation under the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding, the 2003 Terms of Reference, and subsequent agreements.

He emphasized that the work relies on historical legal documents, including the Procès Verbaux of the Franco-Siamese Boundary Commissions of 1908-1909 and 1919-1920.

“The temporary demarcation is not about territorial gain or loss. Its purpose is to identify accurate on-the-ground locations for permanent demarcation,” he said. “This ensures residents in border areas can live safely, rebuild their livelihoods, and that Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are maintained.”

After the survey, joint teams will review land occupation on both sides and discuss mutually acceptable solutions. Hun Manet urged citizens to trust the government and the commission to uphold professional standards and protect national interests.