Cambodia Prioritizes Legal, Diplomatic Avenues for National Interest in Border Talks

Cambodia has strongly emphasized its commitment to peaceful resolution based on international law during the first joint committee meeting with Thailand on border issues, held in Singapore from September 14-16, 2026. This consultation was conducted under the procedures stipulated in Article 298 and Annex V of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). In a Facebook post on September 16, 2026, Minister of Information Net Pheaktra stated that as Cambodian citizens, they are proud of the Cambodian delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn, for participating in this process. He highlighted their role in presenting Cambodia's stance through law, diplomacy, dialogue, and peaceful means. Minister Pheaktra stressed that participation in the reconciliation mechanism is not intended to escalate tensions but rather to utilize the dispute resolution mechanisms peacefully as outlined in UNCLOS. What is noteworthy is not just the participation in this meeting, but the demonstration that Cambodia chooses law over confrontation and diplomacy over escalating tensions. This aligns with Cambodia's consistent stance of seeking peaceful and lawful resolutions to disputes with neighboring countries. Following this initial meeting, Minister Pheaktra pointed out that the good faith of the involved parties should be measured by concrete actions, including constructive participation in the process, implementation of agreements, and measurable progress towards a resolution. He concluded that while the meeting has ended, the reconciliation process has just begun, and it is crucial to continue to resolutely and patiently apply international law and diplomacy to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution for both neighboring countries. Source: CEN Cambodia