Japan praises Cambodia’s approach to border dispute with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, July 2, 2026 (KPT) – Japan has praised Cambodia’s handling of its border dispute with Thailand, commending Phnom Penh’s emphasis on patience, openness and international law during talks between senior officials on Thursday.

The remarks came in a meeting between Japan’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Ueno Atsushi, and Thun Vathana, Second Vice‑President of Cambodia’s Senate.

Thun Vathana thanked Japan for its contribution to Cambodia’s peace and development since the UN‑organised elections in 1993.

He reiterated Cambodia’s position that it would continue to exercise patience, remain open to third‑party involvement and seek a resolution in line with international law.

Ambassador Ueno welcomed what he described as Cambodia’s “mature approach” to the dispute, voicing support for its commitment to legal mechanisms.

On the maritime boundary, Thun Vathana backed resolving the issue under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, following Thailand’s unilateral termination of a 2001 memorandum of understanding.

On the land border, he said Cambodia remained committed to bilateral talks but could consider referring the matter to the International Court of Justice if negotiations fail.

He also urged Thailand to comply with the 1904 and 1907 Franco‑Siam Treaties and return territories and temples Cambodia says remain under Thai occupation despite last year’s ceasefire.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, parliamentary cooperation and the longstanding Cambodia‑Japan partnership.