Expert: Cambodia’s Peaceful Border Stance Reflects National Dignity

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct.14,2025) — Cambodian experts say the government’s firm stance on peacefully resolving its border dispute with Thailand reflects national dignity and a commitment to peace, stability and international law.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said Cambodia’s priority is to avoid war—not out of fear, but because of the destruction it brings.

“Our greatest effort is to avoid war. It is not because we fear war, but because we know war brings only destruction,” Prak said. “We are not those who covet others’ land, nor are we aggressors seeking to seize what is not ours.”

He added that Cambodia would only take up arms to defend its territorial integrity.
“We have done so much, and yet, we are no longer safe,” he said.

Kin Phea, director general of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said the government’s position is consistent with international law and reflects a foreign policy rooted in peace and stability.

“Our deputy prime minister’s remarks reaffirm Cambodia’s strong commitment to peaceful dispute resolution,” Phea said.

He added that Cambodia’s use of force during recent five-day clashes was a necessary act of self-defense in response to Thai aggression.

Thong Mengdavid, a geopolitical and international security analyst, said Cambodia’s pledge to exercise “utmost patience” amid Thai border encroachments is a strategic diplomatic move aimed at reducing tensions and asserting sovereignty.

“Rather than resorting to force, Phnom Penh is relying on legal and diplomatic mechanisms—including the 1904–1907 treaties, the 2000 memorandum of understanding, and possible action at the International Court of Justice—to maintain legal legitimacy,” Mengdavid said.

He said Cambodia’s restraint is intended to avoid escalation, protect border communities and maintain international support, demonstrating that restraint is a sign of commitment, not weakness.

Mengdavid noted that while Cambodia’s approach may not immediately resolve the dispute, it preserves the country’s credibility, prevents conflict and frames the issue within legal and diplomatic boundaries where Cambodia holds stronger ground.

By avoiding military confrontation, Phnom Penh aims to maintain stability and international sympathy while applying pressure on Thailand through multilateral channels, particularly ASEAN and international institutions.