Cambodia Links U.S.–Europe Diplomatic Mission to Defense of Sovereignty

PHNOM PENH, Feb 22, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has cast Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet’s recent mission to the United States and Europe as part of a broader push to defend sovereignty and safeguard citizens amid border tensions.

Government spokesman Pen Bona told reporters Sunday that after engagements in Washington, the premier and his delegation continued their outreach in Europe.

In Washington, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet joined the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace at the U.S. Institute of Peace on Feb 19, at the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump. The forum, mandated by a UN Security Council resolution adopted in November, aims to promote peace and reconstruction in conflict zones including Gaza.

Cambodia’s participation carried added weight as the meeting also revisited the Cambodia–Thailand armed conflict. Pen Bona said the discussion reaffirmed international concern over alleged territorial violations and the displacement of tens of thousands of Cambodians.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet voiced hope the Board would serve as an additional mechanism to ease tensions and restore stability along the border.

During his U.S. stay, the premier met senior officials including the Deputy Secretary of State, Deputy Secretary of Defense, Deputy National Security Advisor, and the U.S. Trade Representative, as well as Turkey’s foreign minister and policy leaders.

The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh welcomed Cambodia’s role as a founding member of the Board of Peace, describing bilateral ties as growing and mutually beneficial.

Pen Bona stressed Cambodia’s adherence to the ceasefire and the Dec 27, 2025 Joint Statement, while rejecting any attempt to alter borders by force. He said Cambodia’s position rests on historical treaties, demarcation records, and the principle of uti possidetis juris.

The mission, he added, reflects a dual-track strategy: strengthening partnerships abroad while asserting Cambodia’s sovereign stance on the global stage.