Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a press release on April 19 protesting recent activities by Thai armed forces along the border. The statement said Thai forces acted on April 18 in several border areas of Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey and Pursat provinces, including adding an observation post near Preah Vihear Temple and building roads, digging defensive works and constructing bunkers in several parts of Oddar Meanchey. The ministry said these actions seriously violated Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Cambodia rejected descriptions of the activities as “defensive” or consistent with agreements. The ministry said unilateral land enclosure and clearing contravened the spirit of the Joint Statement of the Third Special General Border Committee Meeting on December 27, 2025. The Cambodian government reiterated that it did not recognise any boundary line or territorial claim unilaterally asserted by Thailand and said the activities would not affect Cambodia’s legal rights or position concerning its international boundary.
The statement called on Thailand to comply with the UN Charter, ASEAN Charter and Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, including commitments to peaceful dispute resolution and respect for sovereignty. Cambodia demanded an end to further unilateral provocative actions to ease tensions and rebuild trust. It reiterated its commitment to resolving border disputes peacefully under international law and bilateral agreements, preserving good-neighbourly relations and peace along the border.
