AKP Phnom Penh, March 15, 2026 —

The Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) is conducting "active and uninterrupted" diplomatic missions both domestically and internationally to defend its territorial integrity and protect citizens from the violations by Thai armed forces, a Royal Government spokesman confirmed on Sunday.

In a press conference, H.E. Pen Bona, the RGC Spokesperson, detailed the Royal Government’s multi-faceted response to recent border tensions, emphasising a strategy combining robust diplomacy, legal challenges, and national unity.

Royal Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bona highlighted the ongoing regional tour of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Prak Sokhonn. Following official visits to Singapore and New Zealand, the Minister is currently continuing his diplomatic engagements in Australia.

During the visits to Singapore and New Zealand, H.E. Minister Prak Sokhonn held in-depth discussions on regional and global security, peace, and stability. According to Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bona, "the latest developments in the situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border" were a key topic. The Cambodian Foreign Minister expressed gratitude to friendly nations for their support of a peaceful resolution to the conflict, aiming to ensure lasting peace along the frontier.

Beyond government-to-government talks, H.E. Minister Prak Sokhonn met with Cambodian communities and students in both New Zealand and Australia. He conveyed well-wishes from His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

"This reflects the care and concern of the Royal Government and its leaders for all Khmer people," Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bona stated. "Neither the Monarch nor the leaders have ever abandoned any compatriot, no matter where they live, under the spirit that every Cambodian is part of the greater Khmer family."

H.E. Minister Prak Sokhonn used the meetings to reassure the diaspora of the Royal Government’s "highest priority" on defending territorial integrity. He outlined a commitment to all peaceful means—diplomatic, political, legal, and through public opinion—in accordance with international law and bilateral agreements. He also noted the Royal Government’s readiness to exercise its right to self-defence, while expressing gratitude for the diaspora's strong support for Cambodia's front-line troops.

On the domestic front, Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bona confirmed that the Royal Government is closely monitoring the activities of Thai armed forces and has lodged immediate protests against any violations of sovereignty.

He specifically cited a formal protest made on Mar. 13, 2026, to the Thai side. The protest "absolutely opposed" the construction of structures, characterised as reinforcing military and civilian positions, in areas illegally occupied by Thai forces. The statement demands that Thailand "immediately cease all of the above activities" and fully comply with the Joint Statement of Dec. 27, 2025, and other existing agreements.

Spokesperson H.E. Pen Bona reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Cambodian leadership, including Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, to protecting territorial integrity and the well-being of all Cambodians. He stated that displaced Cambodians are a priority, with the Royal Government facilitating livelihoods for those who have returned home and those who have yet to do so. The safety of Cambodians and students in the Middle East and other countries also remains a top concern.

In conclusion, the spokesman reaffirmed Cambodia's firm stance on peace and adherence to international law. "Cambodia strictly respects the ceasefire and all points of the Joint Statement of Dec. 27, 2025, as well as other agreements," he said.

"Cambodia firmly upholds the defence of the international border line bequeathed by the Indo-Siamese Border Commission, respecting the principle of Uti Possidetis Juris, the Franco-Siamese conventions and treaties, and all relevant maps and documents. Cambodia absolutely does not recognise any alteration of the border line resulting from the use of force."

By K. Rithy Reak