PHNOM PENH – The Cambodian government has issued a stern protest against Thailand, calling for an immediate cessation of what it terms “illegal activities” across more than 15 locations within Cambodian sovereign territory.

In a press release issued on March 17, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC) detailed a series of unilateral actions taken by Thai military forces and clergy following a ceasefire agreement established on December 27. The Ministry alleges that Thailand has been occupying and developing infrastructure on Cambodian soil in clear violation of international law and bilateral agreements.

Widespread Border Encroachment

According to the official statement, the activities include the construction of roads, concrete bunkers, and permanent structures, as well as the installation of Thai national flags and religious statues. Key areas of concern include:

• Oddar Meanchey Province: Thai armed forces reportedly used heavy machinery to excavate land and build new concrete bunkers southeast of the Ta Moan Thom temple. Similar activity, including road construction, was noted in Thmar Don village, Banteay Ampil district.

• Preah Vihear Province: Significant infrastructure development is occurring at An Ses, Mom Bei, and the Ta Thav areas. This includes the clearing of land and the erection of Buddha statues by both Thai military personnel and monks at sites such as Phnom 469, Phnom 677, and Phnom 500.

• Strategic Heights: Construction of permanent structures has also been documented at Phnom 505 and near the Don Tuan temple.

Legal Standing and Sovereignty

The Cambodian Ministry emphasized that these locations fall entirely within the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The Ministry cited the 1:200,000 scale maps produced by the Indochina-Siam Boundary Commission, which are recognized under the Franco-Siamese Convention of 1904 and the Treaty of 1907.

“Cambodia calls on Thailand to immediately cease all activities in the aforementioned areas to avoid further unilateral actions,” the Ministry stated. “We urge the full and faithful implementation of all existing agreements to de-escalate the situation and promote mutual trust.”

Commitment to Peace

Despite the rising tensions, Cambodia reaffirmed its “unwavering commitment” to a peaceful resolution. The government maintained that border disputes must be settled through diplomatic means in accordance with international law.

The statement concluded with a firm principle: “Borders must not be changed by force.”