AKP Phnom Penh, June 02, 2025 --

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reiterated the Kingdom’s firm stance on resolving longstanding border issues with Thailand through the International Court of Justice (ICJ), particularly concerning four sensitive areas: Mom Bei, Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, and Ta Krabei Temple.

Speaking at the first-ever National Assembly-Senate Congress held in Phnom Penh this morning, Samdech Thipadei emphasised that the border dispute has been manipulated by extremist groups in both Cambodia and Thailand, exacerbating tensions and even sparking violence.

He cited a recent incident in which Thai forces unlawfully opened fire on a Cambodian trench, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier, despite the Royal Government of Cambodia’s consistent efforts to de-escalate the situation through peaceful and systematic means.

“Cambodia hopes that Thailand will agree to jointly bring this issue before the ICJ in a spirit of fairness and mutual trust,” said the Premier. “Let us resolve this matter peacefully, so that unclear border demarcations do not lead to further armed conflict.”

He added that if Thailand refuses, Cambodia will unilaterally file a complaint with the ICJ, with the goal of settling the dispute legally and preventing further incitement by extremist factions.

“Even if the Thai side does not agree, Cambodia is prepared to proceed with legal action at the ICJ,” he said. “This is essential to prevent a handful of extremists in both countries from reigniting tensions and leading us into repeated confrontation.”

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, through technical dialogue and international legal mechanisms. However, he also made clear that Cambodia reserves the right to defend its sovereignty, including through military means, if necessary.

“Cambodia does not seek to claim a single millimetre of territory from any nation. But we are fully determined to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs,” he declared.

The Premier also called on all Cambodians to remain united in defending the nation and expressed gratitude to the people for their continued support of Cambodian soldiers.

Meanwhile, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate and Chair of the National Assembly-Senate Congress, voiced strong support for the government’s approach, stating that bringing the dispute to the ICJ would relieve both governments from domestic pressure and bring a long-overdue resolution.

“Cambodia will accept and respect the ruling of the ICJ,” he affirmed.

Nevertheless, Samdech Techo Hun Sen stressed that bilateral mechanisms with Thailand will remain in place and urged the public not to escalate the issue into an ethnic or nationalist conflict. He also underscored the importance of maintaining normal relations in trade, tourism, and other areas of cooperation.

By Heng Panha