Francophonie body urges Cambodia-Thailand dialogue, troop withdrawal

PHNOM PENH, July 13, 2026 (KPT) – Government spokesman Pen Bona said Monday the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) has called for an immediate easing of tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, urging both sides to continue dialogue and withdraw armed forces from disputed border areas. He said the APF reaffirmed support for existing bilateral mechanisms, particularly the Joint Boundary Commission, and encouraged a peaceful resolution in line with international law. The resolution also backed the normalisation of relations between the two countries based on mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders. According to Bona, the APF urged both sides to avoid unilateral actions that could escalate tensions and supported full implementation of the ceasefire statement signed in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025. The assembly expressed deep regret over civilian suffering and warned that destruction of cultural heritage, described as the “common heritage of humanity,” would undermine prospects for lasting peace and reconciliation. The resolution was adopted on July 11 during the APF’s 51st annual session in Yaoundé, Cameroon, following a recommendation from its Political Committee. Bona said it reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to the Bamako and Saint Boniface Declarations, international law and International Court of Justice rulings. Cambodian senator Ouch Borith, speaking on behalf of the Senate, National Assembly and people, thanked APF delegates for their support, describing the resolution as a message of solidarity among Francophone states and a reaffirmation of their commitment to peace, dialogue and the rule of law.