PM Hun Manet leverages diplomacy to advance peaceful resolution of Cambodia–Thailand border issue

PHNOM PENH, Feb 19, 2026 (KPT) – Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet is using international diplomacy to press for a peaceful and lawful resolution to Cambodia’s border dispute with Thailand, government spokesman Pen Bona said Thursday.

Speaking at a press briefing, Bona said the premier’s current mission to the United States, followed by visits to Europe, reflects an active diplomatic strategy to safeguard Cambodia’s territorial integrity and protect its citizens.

In Washington, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet is attending the inaugural meeting of the “Board of Peace” at the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump, alongside bilateral talks with American officials and international leaders. He will later travel to Geneva and Brussels for high-level meetings with European counterparts.

In a Reuters interview on February 17, Samdech Thipadei reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to resolving the border issue through peaceful mechanisms, particularly the resumption of work by the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). He stressed Cambodia’s consistent position of upholding international law and rejecting any violation of sovereignty by force.

Bona said the government views international engagement not as escalation but as a responsible diplomatic effort to draw attention to the issue, strengthen multilateral support for peace, and reinforce Cambodia’s commitment to a fair settlement.

Officials reiterated that protecting territorial integrity and ensuring the safe return of affected citizens remain top priorities, with diplomacy the preferred path toward lasting stability along the border.