Cambodia Welcomes France’s Offer in Thai Border Dispute

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Khmer Times

 

France has offered to help ease tensions between Cambodia and Thailand over their long-running border dispute — a move seen in Phnom Penh as both welcome and historically significant, given France’s former colonial role in Indochina.

 

President Emmanuel Macron made the offer during separate talks with the leaders of both countries, pledging neutrality and access to key colonial-era documents that could clarify contested claims. Cambodian officials say this gesture could help pave the way toward a peaceful and lasting resolution.

 

Speaking after Macron’s recent call with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Cambodia confirmed the French president had earlier offered similar support during a June meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet in Nice. France’s commitment includes providing maps and archival material from the protectorate era — some of which formed the legal basis for Cambodia’s victory in the 1962 Preah Vihear case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

 

“This is a meaningful step,” said Kin Phea of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, “not only because France recognises its historical role, but because it is showing genuine willingness to support a peaceful resolution rooted in law.”

 

Cambodia insists it remains committed to working with Thailand through the Joint Boundary Commission, but officials have also stated the legal process to bring the matter before the ICJ is ongoing.

 

“Our goal is clear,” said Cambodian Minister Delegate Jean-François Tain. “We want a swift, peaceful and permanent resolution — one that prevents any return to armed conflict.”

 

Still, some in Cambodia urge caution. Youk Chhang of the Documentation Centre of Cambodia welcomed dialogue but stressed that foreign involvement, including France’s, should not overshadow ASEAN-led efforts.

 

“Our history with France is complicated,” he noted, pointing to both the benefits and traumas of colonial rule. “Cambodia must tread carefully and also consider broader international support — including from the United States — while prioritising ASEAN’s central role.”

 

With memories of past clashes still fresh and disputed zones unresolved, Cambodia is hoping France’s renewed interest will contribute to clarity — not confusion — in one of Southeast Asia’s most sensitive border rows.

 

-2025-06-30

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