Phnom Penh: Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen has emphasised that Cambodia is not seeking weapons or ammunition that could lead to bloodshed with Thailand. Instead, the country is calling for support and encouragement toward a peaceful and lawful resolution.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Techo Hun Sen recalled Cambodia's vote against Russia's invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations General Assembly, stating, "Both my compatriots and our international friends may now better understand why I decided to instruct the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cambodia's representatives to vote against Russia in 2022-a move that surprised many countries regarding Cambodia's position."
He expressed concerns over potential future actions by Thailand similar to those experienced between 2008 and 2011, citing current acts of aggression and disregard for international law. His decision, he stated, can now be better understood within the international law-abiding community and in the context of future relations with Thailand.
Samdech Techo urged nations with a foreign policy based on the rule of law to promote a peaceful resolution between Cambodia and Thailand, specifically through the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The four critical points for resolution include the Emerald Triangle area, Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, and Ta Krabei Temple.
He reaffirmed Cambodia's stance by stating, "Cambodia is not asking for weapons or ammunition leading to bloodshed with Thailand. Instead, Cambodia seeks encouragement toward peaceful resolution-through bilateral dialogue and legal means."
With the Cambodia-Thailand border spanning over 800 kilometres, Cambodia is focusing on resolving the four identified areas sensitive to potential armed conflict through legal channels. He emphasized that only the ICJ could resolve these issues, as bilateral mechanisms may take an indefinite time.
The Senate President highlighted the importance of a legal approach, which does not equate to war-mongering but is a lawful method to prevent future conflict. He cited examples from ASEAN, where countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore resolved territorial disputes through the ICJ, maintaining strong diplomatic relations afterward.
In conclusion, Samdech Techo Hun Sen warned against evading legal resolutions, equating it to violating and ignoring the rule of law in a global order that values and respects legal norms.