Cambodia steps up diplomacy, ASEAN engagement to resolve border standoff with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, Mar 29, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is intensifying diplomatic efforts and deepening regional engagement as it seeks a peaceful resolution to its border dispute with Thailand, officials said Sunday.

Government spokesman Pen Bona told reporters that Phnom Penh is pursuing “all diplomatic channels” to address territorial concerns and safeguard communities along the frontier.

He cited areas under “illegal occupation” by Thai forces — including the installation of containers and barbed wire — and stressed that displaced Cambodian civilians remain a priority for the government and international partners.

On March 27, the foreign ministry led diplomats and representatives of international organizations to affected areas in Thmor Da, Pursat province. A day later, ASEAN observers were deployed to assess conditions near Boeung Trakuon checkpoint and Prey Chan village in Banteay Meanchey province.

The ASEAN Observer Team’s involvement highlights growing regional engagement in monitoring the ceasefire agreed under a December 27, 2025 joint statement.

“The continued presence of ASEAN observers reflects Cambodia’s full support for the mechanism and our commitment to implementing all agreed measures,” Bona said.

He reiterated Cambodia’s stance that borders must not be altered by force and vowed to resolve the issue through peaceful means in line with international conventions.

By positioning ASEAN engagement at the center of its strategy, Cambodia is signaling a broader push for stability and cooperation in the region.