Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has formally requested that Thailand restart negotiations through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). The Prime Minister emphasized that resuming these discussions is a necessary step to finalize land boundary demarcations and allow more than 20,000 displaced citizens to return to their homes safely.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Hun Manet noted that while a ceasefire has been in effect since late last year, the situation remains precarious due to the continued presence of military personnel from both nations in disputed zones. He stated, “While there has been a ceasefire since the conflict broke out a year ago, it remains fragile because thousands of troops are still stationed face-to-face along the border.”
The push for renewed talks aligns with a December 27 ceasefire agreement, which prioritized the demarcation of conflict-affected regions. However, progress has been hindered by disagreements regarding the scope of negotiations. Thai officials have argued that Cambodia’s move to seek compulsory conciliation under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding maritime claims has complicated the land boundary process.
Hun Manet dismissed these claims, asserting that maritime and land disputes are distinct legal matters. He maintained that the UNCLOS proceedings should not serve as a barrier to the JBC’s work. Furthermore, the Cambodian government has expressed opposition to unilateral infrastructure projects and land alterations conducted by the Thai military in contested areas, labeling such actions as attempts to establish a physical presence on sovereign territory.
Source: Khmer Times
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