Cambodian Senate Highlights International Law in Statement on Thailand Border Dispute

Cambodian Senate Highlights International Law in Statement on Thailand Border Dispute

PHNOM PENH, October 12, 2026 — Cambodia’s Senate has issued a statement addressing the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, highlighting the importance of peaceful conflict resolution, international law and existing bilateral agreements.

The statement, addressed in connection with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), outlines Cambodia’s position on resolving outstanding border issues through established mechanisms and calls attention to the importance of dialogue, cooperation and respect for international legal principles.

Cambodia stresses bilateral agreements and established mechanisms

The statement refers to existing bilateral frameworks and mechanisms between Cambodia and Thailand, including the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the General Border Committee (GBC) and the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC).

These mechanisms form part of the established framework for addressing border-related matters through dialogue and bilateral cooperation.

Cambodia’s position, as outlined in the statement, emphasises the importance of respecting existing agreements and using appropriate diplomatic and legal channels to address outstanding issues.

International law and peaceful resolution

The statement also refers to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in discussing the relevant legal framework for resolving disputes.

It underscores the importance of peaceful solutions and adherence to international law, while stressing the need for cooperation and constructive engagement between the two countries.

International attention and regional stability

By addressing the issue in connection with the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the statement brings Cambodia’s position to the attention of the wider parliamentary community.

The document also references concerns related to border security and the humanitarian implications of the dispute, including material cited in the Cluster Munition Monitor 2026.

Cambodia’s overall position, as presented in the statement, centres on resolving the dispute through peaceful means, respecting established legal frameworks and pursuing a lasting solution that supports stability and cooperation in the region.