Cambodia Pushes for UNCLOS Mediation in Border Dispute with Thailand

The Cambodian government has reiterated its commitment to initiating compulsory conciliation under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to resolve the long-standing maritime boundary dispute with Thailand. This action follows Thailand's unilateral abrogation of the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which served as the sole bilateral framework for addressing the overlapping maritime claims for over 25 years. During a press briefing on July 20, 2026, the government spokesperson announced that Cambodia agreed to the request from the four independent conciliators for additional time to carefully consider the appointment of a chairperson for the Cambodia-Thailand conciliation commission. This extension is deemed appropriate and reasonable, considering the significance of the appointment and the overall conciliation process. The spokesperson emphasized that this request does not affect the deadlines or procedural steps under UNCLOS. Cambodia expressed gratitude for the conciliators' diligence and reaffirmed its confidence in the process, stating its readiness to advance the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes with Thailand based on international law. Prime Minister Hun Manet had announced on June 2, 2026, the commencement of the compulsory conciliation mechanism under UNCLOS to resolve overlapping maritime claims with Thailand. The Cambodian government views this mechanism as the best option after thoroughly considering all available legal and peaceful avenues. It allows both countries to present their positions before an independent commission composed of five renowned international law experts. Cambodia firmly hopes this process will once again demonstrate the true value of international law and peaceful dispute resolution. The Cambodian government's stance has received full support from national institutions, ministries, government bodies, sub-national administrations, and citizens from all walks of life. The nation stands united in its pursuit of a peaceful resolution through international conciliation, in accordance with international law, to achieve a just and lasting solution for both peoples, contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Regarding the land border issue, Cambodia, as a nation that cherishes peace and respects international law, strictly adheres to the ceasefire and the full content of the joint statements of December 27, 2025, and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement on Peace of October 26, 2025, as well as other existing agreements between the two countries. Cambodia resolutely defends the Cambodian-Thai international border inherited from the Franco-Siamese Boundary Commission, respecting international legal principles, the principle of uti possidetis juris, the Franco-Siamese treaties, maps, and boundary demarcation records of the Franco-Siamese Boundary Commission, along with all related agreements and documents that the parties have previously agreed upon. The government unequivocally rejects any alteration of the border resulting from the use of force. It is in this spirit that the Cambodian government protests all instances of encroachment on Cambodian sovereignty by Thai forces. This protest serves to clarify that the barbed wire, containers, and other ground activities in areas illegally occupied by the Thai side do not constitute the border between the two countries, as a clear international border already exists which neither party can unilaterally alter. Source: CEN Cambodia