Thai Foreign Minister Rebukes Cambodia Over Public Remarks as Tensions Flare Along Border
Bangkok accuses Phnom Penh of inappropriate interference in Thailand’s domestic discourse and urges restraint amid ongoing frontier dispute
Thailand’s Foreign Minister has issued a formal warning to the Cambodian government over comments perceived as interference in Thai political affairs, reflecting heightened sensitivities in diplomatic relations amid an ongoing border dispute between the two countries.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs publicly dismissed assertions by Cambodian officials regarding internal Thai matters, emphasising that matters of domestic political discourse should not be used to complicate bilateral relations or regional stability.
Bangkok characterised recent Cambodian commentary as inappropriate and reiterated its position that disputes, including the protracted frontier disagreements that have periodically strained ties, should be addressed through established bilateral mechanisms and diplomatic dialogue rather than through external comment or criticism.
The ministry underscored Thailand’s commitment to resolving disagreements through peaceful negotiation and mutual respect, and stressed that maintaining constructive neighbourly relations remains a priority even as tensions persist along the border.
Thai officials reiterated that issues pertaining to Thailand’s internal political landscape lie outside the legitimate scope of Cambodian diplomatic engagement, and encouraged Phnom Penh to focus on cooperative measures that reinforce regional harmony.
The rebuke comes at a time when both capitals are navigating complex negotiations related to territorial boundaries and historical grievances, with ASEAN and other regional partners urging de-escalation and adherence to frameworks for peaceful resolution.
Thailand has signalled it remains open to bilateral talks on substantive issues while defending the principle that domestic political discourse must remain sovereign and free from foreign intervention or commentary.