Cambodian PM Sets Clear Conditions for Resolving Border Dispute with Thailand

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reaffirmed the Royal Government of Cambodia’s clear and principled stance on resolving border tensions with Thailand.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for new achievements at the Phnom Chum Sen Rikreay Royal Gendarmerie Training Centre in Kampong Chhnang province this morning, coinciding with the 32nd Founding Anniversary of the Royal Gendarmerie (July 14, 1993 – July 14, 2025), the Premier stressed that Cambodia remains committed to peaceful resolution based on law and bilateral mechanisms.

“We continue to resolve border tensions using legal and technical bases under national and international law, as well as bilateral mechanisms—except in four sensitive areas: Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, Ta Krabei Temple, and the Mom Bei area,” he said. “We aim to avoid the use of force, but Cambodia reserves the right to all means of self-defence and protection of sovereignty.”

Samdech Thipadei added that Cambodia has already informed the United Nations about the four sensitive areas and has legal experts ready to address the matter.

He reaffirmed that Cambodia is committed to peaceful relations with neighbouring countries—not only in terms of borders and culture but also economically. “Our two countries have shared 75 years of economic relations, and in all aspects, we must respect each other and avoid unilateral actions,” he emphasised.

“Cambodia seeks clarity because Thailand continues to act unilaterally […]. Since June 7, 2025, Thailand has gradually closed border checkpoints and reduced operating hours. Then on June 23, it fully closed the border, suspending the flow of goods and people, except for students and emergency patients. Later, although reopened, people and vehicles were still restricted. What did Cambodia do in response?” he questioned rhetorically.

The Prime Minister outlined three conditions for reopening the border, stating that the decision ultimately lies with Thailand: first, Thailand must reopen the border first and unilaterally and guarantee that such unilateral closures will not happen again; second, All border gates must be reopened—partial openings are unacceptable; and third, borders must return to pre-June 7 operating hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. for both people and goods.

“If Thailand meets these three conditions, Cambodia will fully reopen all border crossings within five hours,” he stressed. “We set these conditions because we do not want to continue a game of cat and mouse.”