Cambodia Protests Thai Helicopter's Airspace Incursion

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 4, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has lodged a formal protest with Thailand over what it described as an unauthorised entry by a Thai military helicopter into Cambodian airspace, officials said Friday. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the helicopter crossed about 400 metres into Cambodian airspace on Sept. 3 near the Daung International Border Checkpoint in Kamrieng district, Battambang province. In a statement, the ministry said the incident constituted a violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty, international law and existing bilateral agreements. It cited provisions of the 1944 Convention on International Civil Aviation, known as the Chicago Convention, which recognises each state’s sovereignty over the airspace above its territory. The ministry also referred to de‑escalation measures contained in the Joint Statement of the third special meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee, signed on Dec. 27, 2025. Officials said the alleged incursion breached commitments aimed at reducing tensions along the frontier. Cambodia called on Thailand to immediately halt such actions and comply with agreements designed to build mutual trust, support peaceful settlement of disputes and restore stability along the shared border. Cambodian government reaffirmed its commitment to resolving border issues peacefully and maintaining friendly relations with Thailand, stressing that international borders must not be altered through unilateral actions or force. Cambodia said it would continue to raise concerns through established bilateral channels and regional frameworks, underscoring its position that respect for sovereignty and adherence to international law are essential to maintaining peace and stability.