PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Prime Minister Hun Manet posted on his social media today to update the public on recent developments regarding the ongoing border issues in the villages of Sereng and Prey Chan. He emphasized that progress has been made towards a peaceful resolution, based on legal principles and technical measures.

The prime minister detailed that the conflicts arose two months ago when Thai military forces used barbed wire and tires to surround houses and farmlands in the villages. This approach has caused significant hardship for residents directly affected, as well as increased tension among local populations both domestically and abroad.

Hun Manet stressed that the Royal Government’s primary goal has been to prevent the situation from escalating further, recognizing that violence and coercion could deepen conflict and lead to broader instability. He reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful means and dialogue, noting that violent actions—such as mine clearing, land allocation to Thai citizens, or destruction of structures in the disputed areas—have only complicated efforts to reach an amicable solution.

The prime minister clearly rejected any notion that Cambodia intends to cede its sovereignty or territory in exchange for peace negotiations. “There is no intention to cede our territory or violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cambodia,” he said. “We do not and will not allow any violation of our sovereignty.”

Addressing concerns about prolonged conflict, Hun Manet pointed out that border issues are historically complex, spanning centuries, and require a collaborative approach. He emphasized that any viable resolution must adhere to transparency, consensus, and existing treaties, conventions, and agreements between Cambodia and Thailand.

He cited recent discussions during the two-day joint border committee (JBC) meeting held on October 21-22, which concluded in the early hours of October 23. The meeting focused on technical measures to determine mutual boundaries fairly and transparently, using historical maps—including the 1/200,000 map of the 1907 Treaty and records from the Franco-Siamese Demarcation Commission—as reference points.

The joint efforts aim to establish temporary boundaries, verify them against actual land possessions, and develop a long-term solution to enable local residents to resume normal livelihoods. Hun Manet stressed that such technical cooperation is crucial to settling disputes peacefully and avoiding prolonged conflict that damages communities.

The prime minister reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering dedication to peaceful dialogue, sovereignty, and the well-being of its citizens. The government remains committed to working with Thailand through existing mechanisms and respects the legal frameworks that govern border demarcation, with the aim of achieving sustainable peace and stability along the border region.