Thailand Poses 'Grave Challenge' to Cambodia's Territorial Integrity: DPM

Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea stated on Tuesday that Thailand's ongoing unilateral actions within Cambodian territory, aimed at altering the border by force, pose a "grave challenge" to Cambodia's territorial integrity. Speaking at a high-level meeting in Belgrade commemorating the 65th anniversary of the first conference of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted a series of Thai actions along the border, which he described as attempts to change the boundary between the two countries through force. He specifically cited the installation of barbed wire, construction of permanent infrastructure, and the displacement of Cambodian civilians, labeling these as "faits accomplis designed to alter borders by force, in clear violation of international law and NAM’s founding principles." Despite a ceasefire in December halting armed clashes, the situation along the border remains "fragile," particularly due to the forced eviction of Cambodian civilians who have resided in the affected areas for generations, the Deputy Prime Minister explained. He emphasized that Cambodia has consistently exercised utmost restraint and remains firmly committed to the peaceful settlement of all outstanding issues in strict accordance with bilateral agreements and international law, including the UN Charter and the ASEAN Charter. Consistent with the NAM’s legacy, Cambodia remains unwavering in its commitment to peaceful resolution, he declared. H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea called on Thailand to cease all activities within Cambodian territory, fully implement existing agreements, and resume bilateral mechanisms in good faith. He also urged respect for international law, ICJ judgments, and the dignity and rights of displaced civilians who must be allowed to return safely to their homes. The Deputy Prime Minister unequivocally stated that Cambodia "categorically rejects" any aggression against its sovereignty. "We cannot and will not accept unilateral measures that undermine peace, destabilise communities, and erode trust between our two nations," he asserted. At the same time, he noted that Cambodia's commitment to peaceful settlement extends to its maritime differences, mentioning that Cambodia, along with Thailand, has embraced the compulsory conciliation process under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He described this rules-based mechanism as offering a peaceful path to resolve maritime boundary differences and welcomed global support for de-escalation, mutual respect, and enduring regional stability. "Cambodia’s position is clear," the Deputy Prime Minister concluded. "Borders must never be altered by force or through faits accomplis. Disputes must be resolved through dialogue, negotiation, and legal mechanisms." Source: AKP Cambodia