Cambodia-Thailand Border Tensions: The Cambodian Government Remains “Silent, but Not Idle”

Cambodia-Thailand Border Tensions: The Cambodian Government Remains “Silent, but Not Idle”

(Phnom Penh, 20 October 2025) — Regarding the recent border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, clarified that while the Royal Government may appear silent, it is not idle. Every possible measure and course of action is being carefully studied and coordinated to resolve the issue — including military concerns, refugee management, the repatriation of Cambodians from Thailand, and above all, ensuring the protection of lives, properties, territorial integrity, and the restoration of a peaceful environment where citizens can live safely and prosperously.

Samdech Thipadei made these remarks on the morning of 20 October 2025, during the official inauguration ceremony of the Techo International Airport (TIA) — a world-class 4F airport constructed at a total cost of USD 2.3 billion, under the visionary initiative of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, former Prime Minister of Cambodia, and the current President of the Senate.

Addressing concerns about the government’s perceived silence over the border issue, Samdech Thipadei stated:

“Some people may think the government is too quiet, too patient — and that silence means inaction. Others may hold different opinions or urge us to take various approaches. I cannot dictate everyone’s thoughts. However, I wish to reaffirm that our government’s vision, direction, and strategy are all guided by one primary objective — to protect lives, properties, and our territory, and to rebuild an environment where our people can live without fear or hardship.”

He further emphasized that the government’s approach takes into account all aspects and all actors involved — from front-line military conditions to displaced persons who have lost their livelihoods, and to Thai nationals returning home, etc. The government, he said, is working comprehensively to find solutions that uphold humanitarian and diplomatic principles while maintaining stability and dignity for all.

Samdech Thipadei added that throughout the past three months of border tension with Thailand, the Royal Government has remained silent in words but active in deeds. All relevant institutions have been working in close coordination to manage and de-escalate the situation. The ultimate goal, he affirmed, is to restore calm, end further strain, and resolve the matter peacefully through existing mechanisms and mutual understanding.

“We want this issue to end — to end the conflict, protect our citizens, our land, and our armed forces,” Samdech Thipadei underlined. “The Royal Government of Cambodia is fully committed to resolving this border issue through peaceful means — by refraining from the use of force and instead relying on legal frameworks, bilateral mechanisms, existing agreements, treaties, and, if necessary, international procedures to ensure a lasting and just settlement.”

Samdech Thipadei also called on all Cambodian citizens to place their trust and confidence in the Royal Government, affirming that Cambodia’s firm intention is to achieve peace, protect its sovereignty, and ensure stability along its borders in a responsible and diplomatic manner.