Cambodian King Calls for Patriotism Amid Border Tensions
Cambodian King Calls for Patriotism Amid Border Tensions
PHNOM PENH, 1 July 2026 — Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihamoni has expressed support for resolving the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute through peaceful means based on international law, while calling on Cambodians at home and abroad to remain united in support of national sovereignty.
In a royal message delivered at the opening of the National Assembly’s new session on July 1, King Sihamoni said the recent adoption of the law on compulsory military service and the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) were timely and important measures to strengthen national defence, safeguard Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, improve maritime governance, and foster patriotism among younger generations.
The King urged Cambodians both inside and outside the country to unite as one national family in supporting the government in protecting Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, resolving border issues peacefully in accordance with international law, and continuing national development through institutional reform and modernisation centred on the people.
He also encouraged citizens, particularly young people, to support and comply with the compulsory military service law as part of efforts to strengthen national defence and contribute to the country’s long-term development.
