Is Cambodia Taking Its Ongoing Border Dispute with Thailand to the ICJ?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has initiated a high-level committee to strengthen the nation’s case against Thailand at the International Court of Justice. As tensions simmer over recent border skirmishes, both countries are striving for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.
Key Takeaways
- Cambodia is pursuing legal action at the ICJ regarding its border dispute with Thailand.
- A high-level committee has been formed to prepare the necessary documentation.
- Diplomatic discussions are ongoing between the two nations.
- Both countries aim for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.
- Recent skirmishes have heightened tensions in the border region.
Phnom Penh, June 11 (NationPress) The Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, has declared the formation of a high-level documentation committee aimed at crafting a formidable case as the nation resolves to escalate the ongoing border conflict with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
This high-level committee is tasked with advancing the long-standing case to the ICJ, as reported by local media on Wednesday.
The decision comes just before the scheduled Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting set for June 14 in Phnom Penh, focusing on these persistent border issues.
On Tuesday, the Cambodian government announced the creation of the "Committee to Prepare Documents for Filing a Case with the International Court of Justice Regarding the Areas of Mom Bei, Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, and Ta Krabei Temple."
According to the Cambodian newspaper Khmer Times, the committee, overseen by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Prak Sokhonn, "will possess the authority to act on behalf of the Kingdom of Cambodia before the International Court of Justice."
In contrast, Thailand prefers to address the border dispute through bilateral negotiations.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed she has engaged in discussions with her Cambodian counterpart, Hun Manet, and his father, the Senate President and former Prime Minister Hun Sen, emphasizing their mutual commitment to resolve the dispute amicably through dialogue.
"Our dedication to a peaceful solution has shown positive outcomes. Through sincere and transparent negotiation techniques, we managed to alleviate tensions without resorting to violence," Bangkok Post quoted Paetongtarn.
She confirmed that the meeting scheduled for June 14 will proceed as planned by both nations.
While Cambodia is determined to bring the issue before the ICJ, Paetongtarn has reiterated that the Thai government does not recognize the court's jurisdiction.
The border conflict escalated following a brief exchange of gunfire between soldiers from both countries in the Emerald Triangle on May 28, which tragically resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that Cambodia's actions reflect its commitment to legal recourse in international relations. The establishment of a dedicated committee demonstrates a serious approach to resolving territorial disputes while emphasizing the importance of dialogue with Thailand. Both nations must work diligently to maintain peace in the region.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the newly established committee in Cambodia?
The committee is tasked with preparing a strong case for Cambodia's ongoing border dispute with Thailand to be presented at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
How does Thailand view the border dispute?
Thailand prefers to resolve the border dispute through bilateral negotiations rather than through the ICJ, maintaining its stance against the court's jurisdiction.
What recent events escalated the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand?
The conflict escalated following a brief exchange of gunfire between soldiers from both countries in the Emerald Triangle on May 28, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier.
