AKP Phnom Penh, February 26, 2026 --

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, told the Agence France-Presse (AFP) that Cambodia seeks de-escalation and pursues a peaceful solution to its border dispute with Thailand.

In a rare interview with international media on Feb. 25 in Belgium, Samdech Thipadei stated, “We are not escalating. We want to de-escalation. We want peaceful coexistence.”

The Prime Minister stressed that Thailand has carried out military aggressive actions and occupied Cambodian territory well beyond its unilateral claim as the boundary line between the two countries. He thus demanded their withdrawal. 

Responding to a question on whether Cambodia would use military force to regain lost territory, Samdech Thipadei replied clearly: “We always stick to the de-escalation, peaceful solutions.”

It is recalled that Thailand launched two incursions against Cambodia’s territorial integrity in 2025: the first lasting five days from July 24 to 28, and the second lasting 21 days from Dec. 7 to 27.

Although there have been no further armed clashes since then, Thailand has continued what Cambodia describes as serious violations of its sovereignty, in disregard of international law. These actions include the installation of barbed wire, drainage pipes, shipping containers, trench digging, and the demolition of civilian homes in areas previously seized through aggression.

Furthermore, Thai troops have attempted to create new facts on the ground (fait accompli), which Cambodia categorically rejects. The Royal Government of Cambodia has repeatedly lodged formal protests through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, firmly opposing these actions and reaffirming its determination to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, both now and in the future, by all available means in accordance with international law.

Cambodia reiterates that it will never recognise any modification of its borders, any illegal occupation of its territory, or any change imposed through the use of force.

By C. Nika (Photo: AFP)