Cambodian Experts Welcome U.S.-Brokered Peace Deal with Thailand, Affirms No Land Concessions

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct.20, 2025) — Leading Cambodian foreign affairs experts are welcoming an upcoming peace agreement with Thailand, describing the U.S.-mediated deal as a constructive step toward ending border tensions without compromising national sovereignty.

Speaking at the inauguration of Techo International Airport on Oct. 20, Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed that Cambodia has never accepted, and will not accept, any agreement that undermines its territorial integrity.

“I would like to reaffirm that Cambodia has never agreed to any agreement, including the ceasefire agreement of July 28, 2025, or any future peace agreement, that would in any way compromise Cambodia’s sovereignty,” Hun Manet said.

Kin Phea, director general of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, expressed confidence in the deal, citing the involvement of U.S. President Donald Trump, who is expected to witness the signing during the ASEAN Summit.

“The mediation by major powers such as the United States and the ASEAN chair can pressure the Thai side to implement the spirit of the peace agreement,” Phea said.

He called Cambodia’s success in securing trilateral talks with the U.S., Malaysia, and Thailand a major diplomatic achievement, and rejected opposition claims that the government is trading land for peace.

Vannarith Chheang, chairman of the Angkor Social Innovation Park, also defended the government’s position, saying sovereignty remains the highest priority.

Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn said the agreement marks a crucial step toward restoring peace and cooperation. Both governments have expressed optimism for a new era of regional stability.