Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 19 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged Cambodian and Thai politicians to refrain from interfering in border matters, emphasizing that they should be handled by the Royal Government’s legal and technical experts.

The premier spoke on Wednesday (Feb. 19) at the graduation for students of the Asia Europe University, held at Diamond Island Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet urged Cambodian and Thai politicians to keep politics out of technical matters, emphasizing that geographers are better equipped to handle border issues. “Let the experts resolve technical matters, as border issues involve technical expertise and international law. We must avoid unnecessary conflict,” he stated.

At the same time, Samdech Thipadei also urged Thai politicians not to exploit the border issue with Cambodia for political gain. He reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He added that both governments are working through the officially agreed Cambodia-Thailand Joint Border Committee. This mechanism follows international law, maps deposited by France, and other legal documents to resolve outstanding issues.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei also recalled how border disputes between Cambodia and Thailand in 2008 and 2011 were exploited to incite public unrest. He warned against using politics to fuel tensions between nations, emphasizing that the experience of 2008 should serve as a lesson.

“I want to remind you of this recent history—just over a decade ago—when political interference led to conflict. Let’s not allow nationalism to spark tensions again. True patriotism does not mean soldiers fighting, people dying, or nations turning against each other,” the premier underlined.

Prime Minister Hun Manet also urged the Thai and Cambodian armies to maintain strong daily relations, work together to resolve any issues, and uphold the status quo without creating tensions.
=FRESH NEWS