Cambodia Welcomes UN-Backed Talks to Resolve Maritime Dispute with Thailand

PHNOM PENH, Sept 10, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has welcomed a United Nations‑backed conciliation process aimed at resolving its long‑running maritime dispute with Thailand, saying it hopes the mechanism will lead to a fair and lasting settlement. Government spokesman Penn Bona said Cambodia would participate in the first meeting of the Conciliation Commission established under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The session is scheduled to take place in Singapore from September 14 to 16, following an announcement by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Bona said Cambodia regarded international law as the basis for resolving disputes peacefully and was taking part in the process in good faith. He expressed confidence in the commission, adding that an agreement could pave the way for joint exploration of oil and gas resources in contested waters, a move he said would benefit both countries at a time when energy security is a growing regional concern. The spokesman stressed that Cambodia hoped the process would help build trust and cooperation, noting that the conciliation mechanism was designed to provide impartial assessment and facilitate dialogue between states. The Permanent Court of Arbitration said the commission would convene its first meeting with Cambodia and Thailand in Singapore next week. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn will lead Cambodia’s delegation as Agent, with Lam Chea, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Border Affairs, serving as Deputy Agent. Officials said the talks mark a significant step in efforts to resolve overlapping maritime claims, underscoring Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful settlement and regional stability.