Politics Foreign Minister: Cambodia’s Move to Seek ICJ Ruling Within Its Rights, Will Not Impact JBC

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin.

 

Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has confirmed that Cambodia’s request for parliamentary approval to refer a border dispute with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is within its rights and will not affect ongoing discussions under the bilateral Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism.

 

Speaking during his official visit to Paris for the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) Ministerial Council Meeting, Mr Maris stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring developments along the Thai-Cambodian border. He revealed that he has instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry to convene a meeting of relevant departments to consolidate legal evidence, including photographic documentation, in preparation for negotiations.

 

“The most important objective is to resolve the issue peacefully. We must avoid escalating the conflict and instead pursue a diplomatic strategy that aligns all our efforts in a unified direction,” Mr Maris said.

 

He reiterated Thailand’s commitment to peaceful dialogue, particularly with a neighbouring country with which it shares deep historical ties. “Diplomacy must prevail, not force,” he added, outlining it as a key policy directive for Thai diplomats.

 

The minister further emphasised the significance of the JBC as a mechanism for reducing tensions and addressing boundary issues. While Cambodia is currently designated to host the next JBC meeting, Mr Maris stated that Thailand is ready to host if Phnom Penh is not prepared.

 

“In the interest of de-escalating tensions and finding a way forward on boundary demarcation, we consider the JBC a crucial tool. We are urging Cambodia to convene the meeting as soon as possible,” he noted.

 

In response to recent incidents, Thailand has lodged an official protest with Cambodia, affirming its actions adhere strictly to international legal standards and uphold Thai sovereignty and territorial integrity.

 

Mr Maris also announced that a high-level meeting will be held on 5 June upon his return to Thailand to finalise the nation’s stance. “I am assessing the situation constantly and remain in regular online contact with the Ministry as events develop,” he said.

 

When asked whether Cambodia’s move to bring the matter before the ICJ would interfere with the JBC process, Mr Maris firmly responded that it would not. “It is Cambodia’s sovereign right to seek a ruling from the ICJ, just as Thailand has the sovereign right to pursue its own legal and diplomatic strategies,” he explained.

 

In closing, the Minister stressed the importance of formulating a comprehensive strategic policy for negotiations with Cambodia, taking into account both bilateral relations and available international mechanisms.

 

Related article:

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1362441-thailand-ramps-up-border-talks-with-cambodia-to-ease-tensions/

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.