AKP Phnom Penh, October 20, 2026 --

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H.E. Prak Sokhonn has stressed the importance of restoring diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand, saying stronger diplomatic representation would help the two countries resolve disputes peacefully, prevent misunderstandings and strengthen bilateral cooperation.

In a special interview broadcast by the National Television of Cambodia (TVK) on Tuesday evening, H.E. Prak Sokhonn discussed the outcomes of the second meeting of the Conciliation Commission under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) between Cambodia and Thailand.

He said strengthening diplomatic representation was important for both countries, as it could help foster mutual respect and friendship between their peoples. Diplomatic relations become even more essential during periods of tension and conflict, providing a channel for maintaining peaceful relations, resolving disputes through dialogue rather than military means, preserving peace and preventing misunderstandings.

Currently, diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand have been downgraded to the level of second secretaries, the lowest level of diplomatic representation between the two countries, he noted.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn explained that restoring diplomatic relations was not a new initiative. Last year, the two Prime Ministers agreed in Kuala Lumpur to restore diplomatic ties to an appropriate level and tasked their respective foreign ministers with working together to implement the agreement.

Following several rounds of discussions, the two sides agreed on the dates for sending their respective deputy heads of mission back to their diplomatic missions. However, the implementation of the arrangement was subsequently interrupted as tensions continued to escalate.

He added that in May this year, the two Prime Ministers again agreed to introduce confidence-building measures to restore relations, including the return of deputy heads of diplomatic missions. Despite an exchange of diplomatic notes following the meeting, the arrangement has yet to be implemented.

Cambodia remains convinced that restoring diplomatic relations is essential to establishing an effective channel through which the two countries can address their problems through diplomacy rather than military means, H.E. Prak Sokhonn said.

He expressed hope that Thailand, having stated its commitment to diplomacy and dialogue, would translate those declarations into action by implementing the agreements reached between the two countries.

By C. Nika