Cambodia Reiterates Commitment to Peaceful Negotiations on Border Issues

The Cambodian government has reiterated its strong commitment to the peaceful resolution of border issues with Thailand. On June 29, 2026, government spokesperson Pen Bona held a press briefing on the progress of Cambodia's border situation and recent events. The briefing highlighted key remarks from former Prime Minister Hun Sen during the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Cambodian People's Party (CPP). Hun Sen emphasized that for over 47 years, the CPP has consistently stood firm on the grounds of political righteousness, regardless of circumstances. He stated that the party's deep roots with the people have laid the foundation for national progress, which cannot be destroyed, and this is the root cause of all national victories. He asserted that the CPP is a party of the people, by the people, and for the people, possessing sufficient power and capability to lead Cambodia towards a prosperous future. Consequently, the CPP has consistently achieved victories in all elections, adhering to democratic principles at both national and sub-national levels. During the first six months of 2026, despite the negative impact of complex international developments and the invasion of Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity by Thailand, the nation has continued to advance on the path of development. Political stability, security, social order, macroeconomic stability, and the livelihood of the people have been maintained. The report stressed efforts to transform difficulties into opportunities by expanding domestic production, promoting the consumption of national products, and strengthening tax revenue collection. This reflects Cambodia's resilience, which serves as a foundation for continued development and response to future changes. Regarding some refugees displaced by the invasion who have returned to their homes and resumed their livelihoods, and others who cannot yet return due to illegal occupation by Thai forces, the government has provided support and assistance for their lives while awaiting their return. Furthermore, efforts have been made to ensure the international community understands the truth and supports Cambodia's just stance in resolving border disputes with Thailand peacefully and based on law. For workers returning from Thailand, the government has paid close attention to resolving employment issues. It was stated that the assurance of such a situation is due to the great solidarity of the people from all walks of life, in all regions, surrounding the Royal Government led by Prime Minister Hun Manet, to protect the territory, national achievements, and continue on Cambodia's correct development path. Prime Minister Hun Manet, in his meeting with the micro, small, and medium enterprise community of Cambodia on June 27, 2026, stated that the 7th mandate government is undergoing major trials, including border invasion and sovereignty challenges, new forms of transnational crime, and maintaining macroeconomic stability amidst global economic uncertainty. The utmost priority in addressing these issues is for the nation and the people, to protect the territory and national independence, as well as the stability of people's livelihoods and lives. In the defense of territorial integrity, Cambodia continues to adhere to the mechanism of peaceful negotiation and high patience, utilizing international law as a basis to the fullest extent possible, in order to avoid the use of military force. This is to prevent direct impacts on the livelihoods of people along the border and national macroeconomic stability. Experience has clearly shown that border wars not only destroy opportunities in the tourism sector but also force the state to divert national budgets to purchasing weaponry instead of investing in national socio-economic development. As a crucial part of strengthening itself, promoting domestic production and supporting local products in lieu of imports is essential. To maintain the continuity of support for domestic products, factories and enterprises, as investors, must uphold the stance of self-strengthening and move towards self-reliance, which is true sustainability. By enhancing capacity, quality, and fair pricing, they can ensure the trust and support of customers, especially the Cambodian people. Source: CEN Cambodia