AKP Phnom Penh, March 05, 2026 -- The Royal Government of Cambodia on Thursday reiterated that defending the Kingdom's territorial integrity and its citizens remains its "highest priority," as it seeks to draw international attention to an ongoing border dispute with Thailand.

A Royal Government spokesman, speaking at a press conference in Phnom Penh, said the commitment, previously stated by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, was not merely rhetoric but a clear pledge demonstrated through concrete actions.

"The protection of territorial integrity and the people is the highest priority of the Royal Government," Spokesman H.E. Pen Bona said. "This is not just words, but a clear commitment that has been shown through actions."

H.E. Bona stated that the border issue with Thailand is raised at every opportunity, both domestically and internationally, and that international dialogue partners are aware of what Cambodia describes as illegal encroachment by Thai forces.

He said these partners have been urging a peaceful resolution in accordance with international law, an outcome Cambodia says it also seeks.

The spokesman's remarks were part of an update on the situation along the volatile border, where tensions have flared since last year.

According to H.E. Bona, the Ministry of National Defence on Tuesday facilitated a visit for military attachés from 12 countries to examine sites in Banteay Meanchey province's O'Chrov district.

The delegation visited Prey Chan village and the Boeung Trakuon crossing area, as well as locations in Thmar Puok district where unexploded ordnance remains following heavy attacks by Thai forces in December.

The attachés were shown damaged civilian homes, shops, and public infrastructure, H.E. Bona said. They also visited areas where Thai troops have illegally placed barbed wire and shipping containers to hold ground since a truce took effect on Dec. 27, 2025, preventing tens of thousands of displaced Cambodian civilians from returning home.

Late last month, Cambodia also facilitated a visit by an ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) to the Preah Vihear temple area and the An Seh area in Chheb district, Preah Vihear province. The team observed and reported on the situation and inspected civilian sites damaged in the December attacks, H.E. Bona added.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has also arranged multiple trips for diplomats and international organisation representatives to view the situation first-hand.

The diplomatic push extends beyond Cambodia's borders. During a working visit to Paris on Feb. 25, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H.E. Prak Sokhonn met with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs H.E. Jean-Noël Barrot.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn thanked France for granting Cambodia access to archival documents, maps, and historical records, which are contributing to a better understanding of the border demarcation.

He reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to a peaceful resolution in line with international law and stressed the importance of peace and stability, especially as Cambodia works to ensure the safe and dignified return of its displaced citizens.

H.E. Barrot expressed France's readiness to support any initiative aimed at promoting a peaceful settlement consistent with international law, according to H.E. Bona.

The Cambodian Royal Government reiterated its firm stance that it will not concede any territory.

H.E. Bona stated that Cambodia adheres to the border line established by the Franco-Siamese commission, respecting the principle of uti possidetis juris, relevant treaties, maps, and demarcation minutes.

"Cambodia absolutely does not recognise any modification of the border line resulting from the use of force," he said.

By K. Rithy Reak