Samdech Techo Hun Sen Defends Defence Build‑Up, Says Cambodia Has No History of Invasion

BATTAMBANG, June 12, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s acting head of state Samdech Techo Hun Sen has insisted the country has never pursued a policy of invading other nations, as he defended growing domestic military production and recent defence procurement.

Inspecting a military uniform factory in Battambang province on Thursday, Samdech Techo said Cambodia had historically deployed its armed forces abroad only for United Nations peacekeeping missions.

He stressed current efforts to expand domestic production of equipment were not intended to demonstrate military power, but to strengthen national defence.

“Cambodia has never had a habit of invading any country,” he said, adding that the development of local production capacity should not be interpreted as preparation for conflict.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen dismissed reports in Thai media claiming Cambodia had acquired 30 armoured vehicles as a sign of escalation, saying the country possessed more than that number but used them solely for national security.

He contrasted Cambodia’s approach with other states in the region that manufacture weapons systems and purchase advanced fighter aircraft, noting Cambodia’s focus remained limited to defensive needs.

Reiterating Cambodia’s commitment to international law, Samdech Techo Hun Sen said Cambodia continues to uphold border agreements with Thailand based on historical treaties, mapping records and rulings of the former Indochina‑Siam Border Commission.

He rejected any attempt to alter the frontier through force, stressing Cambodia’s stance as a peace‑loving state.

The remarks come amid sensitivities over border security, with both governments pledging to resolve disputes through dialogue and legal mechanisms.