(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen stated that since the Thai military unilaterally closed the border, it is their sole responsibility to reopen it. He emphasized that Cambodia sees no need for negotiations, as the closure was not a result of mutual agreement—yet Thailand is now calling for talks to reopen the gates.

Samdech Techo spoke on Monday (Jun. 16) in a special message.

“Regarding the reopening of the border gates, let me be clear, since it was the Thai military that closed them, they must be the ones to reopen them. Cambodia sees no need for negotiations on this matter,” Samdech Techo underscored.

He further revealed that although a proposal for dialogue had been made, such discussions were inappropriate under the current circumstances, as the border gate closure constitutes a breach of bilateral agreements between the two nations.

“They closed the gates unilaterally, and now they want us to come to the table to negotiate a reopening, merely to help them save face. Cambodia is a dignified, honourable, and responsible country. We should not be asked to negotiate under such pretences,” Samdech Techo continued.

Samdech Techo added that Cambodia will allow a 24-hour window for Thailand to restore normal border operations. If the Thai side fails to act within that timeframe, Cambodia will move to suspend all imports of Thai fruits and vegetables through every border checkpoint.

Samdech Techo also warned that the possibility of Cambodia imposing a ban on Thai imports remains high.
=FRESH NEWS