Buddha's statue Cambodia has renewed its protests against what it calls “illegal activities” by Thai forces on its soil, accusing Bangkok of building bunkers, roads and Buddha statues in at least 15 locations since the December ceasefire. In a statement issued on 17 March, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation warned that Thai soldiers and monks have been active across Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces, raising Thai flags and erecting permanent structures. Among the most striking claims is the construction of Buddha statues at several sites, including near temples and border entry points. Officials say heavy machinery has been used to clear land and fortify positions southeast of Tamone Thom Temple, while in the Mom Bei area around Hill 469, Thai forces have built roads and permanent facilities. Similar activity has been reported in Thma Daun village, An Seh, and Ta Thav, where Cambodian authorities insist the land lies firmly within their sovereign territory. “These areas are situated entirely within the sovereign territory of the Kingdom of Cambodia,” the ministry stressed, citing maps drawn under the Franco-Siamese agreements of 1904 and 1907. The ministry urged Thailand to “immediately cease” all construction and refrain from further unilateral actions, calling for full respect of bilateral agreements and international law. Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to resolving boundary disputes peacefully, but warned that borders “must not be changed by force.” The dispute highlights the fragility of relations along the Cambodia–Thailand frontier, where historical tensions have often flared around temples and contested borderlands. Phnom Penh’s latest statement signals growing frustration, as it seeks to de-escalate the situation while defending its territorial claims. For now, Cambodia insists it will pursue dialogue, but the presence of Thai troops and monks building structures across the border has added a symbolic dimension to a dispute that risks unsettling regional stability. -2026-03-19
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