Cambodian Governor Urges Calm as Thai Border Closure Drags On

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Cambodian officials have called for calm and restraint following Thailand’s continued unilateral closure of the Poipet border crossing, a key gateway that has been shut since late June amid growing cross-border tensions.

 

Banteay Meanchey Governor Um Reatrey visited the checkpoint on Wednesday, urging Cambodian authorities to stay composed and maintain public order despite mounting economic and social pressures caused by the closure.

 

“We must remain calm and responsible,” Reatrey told officers stationed at the crossing. “Although the closure poses difficulties, our duty to protect national interests and support our people remains unchanged.”

 

The governor led a delegation of provincial officials and military officers to assess the situation at the Poipet checkpoint, which has seen a sharp drop in cross-border movement since the Thai military enforced tighter restrictions earlier this summer. Initially shortening operating hours on 7 June, Thai authorities later imposed a full closure on 23 June, citing efforts to clamp down on scam networks operating near the border.

 

The move has disrupted local trade, separated families, and left many Cambodian workers stranded or jobless. Businesses on both sides of the border, particularly in Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province, have criticised the measures, calling for a swift resolution.

 

Cambodia responded by closing several of its own checkpoints in a reciprocal move. While the situation remains stable on the ground, tensions have simmered, with Phnom Penh demanding assurances before any reopening.

 

Prime Minister Hun Manet reiterated Cambodia’s stance earlier this week, setting out three conditions for border normalisation: Thailand must unilaterally reopen the crossings, commit to never closing them again without prior agreement, and restore the situation to pre-June 7 status.

 

“We’ve already handed Thailand the key,” he said. “We’re offering concessions—they can reopen without any negotiation if they meet those three points.”

 

Governor Reatrey echoed this spirit of de-escalation, calling on security forces to maintain hygiene, vigilance, and cooperation with their Thai counterparts. “We must work together to resolve these challenges peacefully,” he said.

 

Despite the economic toll, Cambodian officials say they are prioritising long-term stability over short-term gains—urging patience as diplomatic efforts continue.

 

-2025-07-18