Cambodia Defends Ceasefire Strategy Amid Territorial Sovereignty Concerns

In a comprehensive policy address, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet defended his government's decision to pursue diplomatic resolution over military escalation in the recent border conflict with Thailand, emphasizing that strategic restraint does not compromise national sovereignty.

Strategic Peace Initiative Prioritizes Civilian Welfare

Speaking on December 29, Prime Minister Manet outlined Cambodia's commitment to peaceful conflict resolution while maintaining territorial integrity. "Cambodia is adhering to the path of peace and prioritising above all else the lives and wellbeing of the people," he stated, addressing concerns that the December 27 ceasefire might signal weakness in defending national interests.

The ceasefire agreement, reached after 21 days of armed confrontation, has drawn criticism from some quarters suggesting Cambodia may have ceded territorial advantages. However, Manet's administration frames this as a calculated decision prioritizing sustainable governance over short-term military gains.

Economic Rationale Behind Diplomatic Strategy

The Prime Minister emphasized the economic logic underlying the ceasefire decision, noting that prolonged conflict offers "absolutely no benefit" for a developing nation like Cambodia. This approach aligns with contemporary conflict resolution theory that prioritizes economic stability and human capital preservation.

The human cost has been significant, with 32 civilian casualties and 93 injuries recorded during the three-week confrontation. Manet's government positions the ceasefire as a humanitarian imperative, stating the need "to stop the sacrifices and injuries among the heroic army and heroic police, as well as innocent citizens."

Legal Framework Preserves Sovereignty Rights

Crucially, the ceasefire terms explicitly preserve Cambodia's legal position regarding border demarcation. The Joint Statement of the General Border Committee clarifies that current military positions "are not related to the determination of border demarcation between the two countries."

This legal framework ensures that "the international border line between Cambodia and Thailand is still determined by existing treaties and conventions," maintaining Cambodia's full rights to pursue border resolution through established international mechanisms.

Institutional Mechanisms for Sustainable Resolution

The agreement establishes a structured pathway for long-term resolution through the Joint Border Commission (JBC), tasked with resuming border surveying and demarcation work. This institutional approach reflects modern governance principles emphasizing multilateral cooperation and legal frameworks over unilateral action.

Point 3 of the Joint Statement mandates both parties to "ensure long-lasting peace along the border of both countries" through systematic border demarcation in affected civilian areas, demonstrating commitment to sustainable conflict prevention.

Regional Stability and International Relations

Cambodia's approach reflects broader regional trends toward diplomatic engagement and economic integration. By choosing negotiation over escalation, the Manet administration signals alignment with international best practices in territorial dispute resolution.

The Prime Minister concluded with a call for national unity, emphasizing that battlefield sacrifices serve as reminders that "division is death, strong unity is life," positioning the ceasefire as strengthening rather than weakening national cohesion.