(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet clarified that Cambodia’s decision to file a lawsuit with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on 15 June 2025 was a coincidence, yet a meaningful one, as it marks the 63rd anniversary of Cambodia’s legal victory over Thailand.

15 June 2025 commemorated the 63rd anniversary of Cambodia’s triumph in the case involving the Preah Vihear Temple, in which the ICJ ruled that Thailand must withdraw its military forces and administrative control from the disputed area surrounding the temple (15 June 1962).

The premier spoke on Tuesday (Jun. 17) at the Closing of Extraordinary General Assembly of Cambodia Scouts in Phnom Penh.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering position before the ICJ, stating that the Kingdom will not retreat in its pursuit of resolving border issues with Thailand.

“Why did we choose 15 June? It happens to coincide with 15 June 1962. Frankly speaking, it is a coincidence, but also a meaningful one for Cambodia, as it marks 63 years since our legal victory,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet noted that Cambodia has taken concrete action beyond rhetoric. Within just two weeks of the decision being made, the Kingdom officially filed its case with the International Court of Justice.

It should be noted that on 16 June 2025, at 11:30 a.m. local time in The Hague (4:30 p.m. in Phnom Penh), Cambodia officially submitted a letter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeking a resolution to its border dispute with Thailand. The contested areas include the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch, and Ta Krabei temples, as well as the Emerald Triangle area. Cambodian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Kimsour Sovannary, personally delivered the letter to ICJ Registrar Philippe Gautier.

Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed Cambodia’s steadfast commitment to seeking the ICJ’s assistance in resolving the border dispute with Thailand over the disputed temples and territory. He added that the government will pursue this effort with determination and a strong sense of responsibility to protect Cambodia’s territorial integrity and national interests.
=FRESH NEWS