Phnom penh: Cambodian Minister of Information H.E. Neth Pheaktra has emphasized that a ceasefire should not lead to territorial advances, creation of new facts on the ground, or the establishment of new border lines amid the ongoing border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Neth Pheaktra addressed this issue through a message on his social media account dated September 8. He questioned whether a ceasefire could transform territory allegedly occupied unlawfully into lawful territory for the occupying party. His response was unequivocal: it cannot.
The Minister's full message elaborated on the principles of a ceasefire, highlighting that it is meant to halt advances and prevent the creation of new borders. He reiterated that Cambodia does not recognize border alterations achieved through force, aligning with international law principles and the Joint Statement signed by Cambodia and Thailand on December 27, 2025.
The ceasefire, which commenced at noon on December 27, 2025, stipulates that there should be no further troop movements or construction activities that could alter the current status of the border. However, the Cambodian Minister accused the Thai military of not adhering to these obligations, alleging that Thai forces have advanced into Cambodian territory and initiated construction activities beyond the recognized boundaries.
The Joint Statement explicitly states that arrangements are without prejudice to border demarcation or the international boundary, emphasizing that troop positions do not equate to sovereignty. The Minister argued that freezing troop positions is a temporary measure and does not confer legal title over the territory.
Furthermore, the Minister pointed out that the continued presence of Thai forces and infrastructure on Cambodian soil represents an unlawful encroachment, raising concerns under international and human rights law. He highlighted the plight of approximately 20,000 displaced Cambodian civilians who are unable to return to their homes due to the situation, which contradicts the Joint Statement's requirement for civilians to return safely and without obstruction.
H.E. Neth Pheaktra also criticized Thailand for maintaining contradictory positions by respecting the Joint Statement while simultaneously asserting control over disputed territories. He urged that the Joint Statement must be read as a whole and not selectively, emphasizing that military positions are not a basis for territorial claims.
The Minister concluded by reiterating the essence of a ceasefire: no advances, no creation of new facts on the ground, no consolidation of control through force, and no obstruction of civilians returning to their homes. He asserted that a ceasefire is not a title deed to territory, and temporary military positions should not be used as a basis for territorial claims.