(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen clarified that the Royal Government of Cambodia decided to refer the case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) because bilateral mechanisms between Cambodia and Thailand have failed to reach a consensus on four key areas: Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, Ta Krabei Temple, and the Emerald Triangle area. Cambodia’s approach is to seek a peaceful settlement in accordance with international law.
Samdech Techo spoke on Monday (Jun. 16) in a special message.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen noted the symbolic timing of Cambodia’s latest legal move, pointing out that exactly 63 years ago, on 15 June 1962, Cambodia won its case at the ICJ over the Preah Vihear Temple. On the same date this year, Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn signed a new submission to the ICJ—marking the first in a series of cases Cambodia intends to bring forward.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen pointed out that Cambodia seeks only peaceful resolution. He explained that both bilateral negotiations and legal proceedings at the International Court are peaceful mechanisms. Submitting a case to an international court, he stressed, should not be seen as an act of provocation or a step toward war.
In the message, Samdech Techo also reiterated that Cambodia is fully capable of defending itself, but has no desire for war. “Cambodia does not lack weapons or forces,” he stated. “But we do not want conflict. Our intention is clear: to avoid war and protect our territory through peaceful means—not aggression.”
The Senate president underlined that Cambodia and Thailand share a border of more than 800 kilometres, yet disputes persist in the four aforementioned areas. Even after 100 or 200 years of bilateral negotiation, these issues remain unresolved. These disputed zones have already triggered previous conflicts between our countries. Therefore, Cambodia has opted for a peaceful path through dialogue and by referring the case to the International Court of Justice.
Samdech Techo hoped that countries worldwide adhere to policies respecting international law, avoiding the use or threat of force, and will support Cambodia in pursuing peaceful solutions through bilateral negotiations and legal mechanisms.
=FRESH NEWS
