BANGKOK — Thailand has criticized Cambodia for bypassing established bilateral mechanisms by taking their temple border dispute to the International Court of Justice, calling the move a violation of international protocol that undermines ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet posted on social media confirming the ICJ submission on June 16, saying: “Kim Sour Sovannary, Ambassador of Cambodia to the Netherlands handed over Cambodia’s official letter to the ICJ to help find a solution to the border issues in the area of Prasat Taman Thom, Taman Toch Temple, Tak Krobey Temple and Mumbai area. The government will continue to do this with commitment and high responsibility to protect the sovereignty of the land, as well as the national interests and the Khmer people.”
On the same day, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra spoke at a press conference at Ban Phitsanulok, reaffirming that Thailand has not accepted ICJ jurisdiction and confirming that legal studies and historical background research have been completed with all information now ready.
Thailand Maintains 1960 Stance
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs separately held a detailed briefing for media, criticizing Cambodia’s decision to skip direct negotiations over the three disputed temple sites.
Thailand reiterated its position of not accepting ICJ jurisdiction, a stance it has maintained since 1960 and shares with over 118 other UN member states. The dispute centers on areas around Prasat Ta Muean Thom, Prasat Ta Muean Tot, and Prasat Ta Kwai temples.
“Thailand participated in the latest Joint Boundary Commission meeting with sincerity and good faith to find a constructive solution,” said Nikorndej Balankura, Director-General of the Department of Information, speaking for the Foreign Ministry. “However, we were disappointed that Cambodia chose not to discuss the four disputed areas within the JBC forum.”
The comments came after the 6th Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission meeting in Phnom Penh from June 14-15, where Cambodia reportedly avoided discussing the contentious temple areas.
Protocol Violation Alleged
Thai officials accused Cambodia of violating the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU 43) between the two countries, which stipulates that interpretation or enforcement issues must be discussed jointly before any unilateral action.
“Cambodia’s actions may be considered ‘skipping steps’ according to international principles,” said Benjamean Sukajanajtee, Director-General of the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs.
Thailand has established a legal team with world-class international advisors to handle the matter, though officials stressed they have not yet received formal notification from either Cambodia or the ICJ about the filing.
Technical Progress Despite Tensions
Despite the diplomatic friction, Thai officials reported technical progress in boundary demarcation. Prasas Prasasvinitchai, Chairman of the Thai side of the JBC, said the recent meeting was “the smoothest” of the five he has attended.
The commission has jointly confirmed 45 out of 74 mutually agreed boundary markers and is producing new maps using advanced Orthophoto and LIDAR technology at a 1:50,000 scale – not the 1:200,000 scale referenced in some media reports.
“The appropriate map for practical work is the 1:50,000 scale, which both sides are jointly producing, making it naturally binding,” Prasas explained.
Peaceful Approach Emphasized
Thai officials emphasized their commitment to peaceful resolution and warned against emotional reactions that could escalate tensions. The government promised not to use the international relations issue for domestic political purposes.
“Thailand is adopting a cautious approach, avoiding emotional reactions or escalating the conflict,” Nikorndej said. “The Thai government has no intention to attack the people.”
Officials also cautioned against misinformation spread through social media, noting that such platforms are not official communication channels and could lead to widespread misunderstandings.
September Meeting Planned
Despite the ICJ filing, Thailand remains committed to bilateral dialogue. The country is prepared to host a special JBC meeting in September, which the Cambodian side has reportedly accepted.
Thai officials argue that bilateral mechanisms like the JBC, General Border Committee (GBC), and Regional Border Committee (RBC) remain the most appropriate forums for resolving the dispute in accordance with UN Charter principles and international law.
The Franco-Siam Treaties of 1904 and 1907 serve as the legal framework for negotiations, officials noted, emphasizing these are international legal obligations rather than voluntary agreements.
Border disputes between the two Southeast Asian neighbors have persisted for decades, with the temple areas representing some of the most sensitive and politically charged territorial issues in the region.
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