Cambodia Emphasizes Peaceful Resolution of Maritime Dispute with Thailand Under International Law

AKP Phnom Penh, September 16, 2026— Cambodian Minister of Information H.E. Neth Pheaktra commended his country’s delegation on Wednesday for upholding national interests through peaceful, rule-based mechanisms following the conclusion of initial conciliation proceedings over maritime boundary disputes with Thailand. The three-day session, held in Singapore from Sept. 14 to 16, marked the opening meeting of the Conciliation Commission convened under Article 298 and Annex V of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). In an official statement, Minister H.E. Neth Pheaktra praised the delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Prak Sokhonn, who served as Cambodia's chief agent in the proceedings, for demonstrating a commitment to diplomacy, legal frameworks, and constructive dialogue. "Cambodia’s engagement in this conciliation process should not be interpreted as an escalation, but as a deliberate reliance on peaceful dispute-settlement mechanisms enshrined in international law," H.E. Neth Pheaktra said. He emphasized that choosing structured UNCLOS proceedings over confrontation reflects Cambodia's long-held foreign policy of pursuing peaceful resolutions with neighbouring nations. Looking ahead, the minister noted that the success of the procedure will hinge on good faith, concrete actions, and adherence to agreed framework measures by both sides. "The first meeting has concluded, but the conciliation process has only just begun," he stated, urging patience and continued reliance on international law as negotiations advance. "We remain hopeful that this process will yield a lasting, peaceful resolution beneficial to both nations." By Heng Panha