PM Hun Manet: Conciliation Takes Time but Avoids Use of Force

PHNOM PENH, June 3, 2026 (KPT) — Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said Cambodia’s decision to pursue compulsory conciliation in its maritime border dispute reflects the government’s commitment to peaceful resolution rather than military confrontation.

Speaking on Wednesday, Samdech Thipadei said the process was initiated to safeguard sovereignty and maritime rights while avoiding conflict and bloodshed.

“We began the compulsory conciliation process yesterday to protect our sovereignty and our rights in the maritime boundary area,” he said.

The premier acknowledged the mechanism could take time but argued it was preferable to deploying troops.

“It may take time, but it is better than sending troops to face one another, which would not resolve the issue and could result in the loss of lives,” he said.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet stressed Cambodia would continue to pursue diplomatic and legal avenues as long as peaceful options remained.

“If there is still a way to resolve border issues peacefully, we must continue trying until the end,” he said. “No border dispute can be truly resolved through the use of force.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Tuesday during the briefing to foreign diplomats said the move underscores Cambodia’s determination to resolve disputes through legal and diplomatic channels in line with international law.

Officials stressed that compulsory conciliation under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea is a peaceful mechanism designed to prevent escalation.

Samdech Thipadei added that territorial claims could not be established through infrastructure projects or troop deployments in disputed areas.

“Borders are not recognised through building roads or stationing troops illegally on land,” he said. “They must be determined and recognised under international law.”

The premiere also expressed appreciation to citizens for supporting troops stationed along the frontier, noting that public contributions and humanitarian assistance had helped personnel carry out their duties.

He said the public’s role in backing the armed forces was vital to safeguarding national interests and maintaining stability.