Cambodia Chose Law Over Confrontation, Information Minister Says After UNCLOS Conciliation Round Ends

PHNOM PENH — Sept. 16, 2026: Cambodia's decision to bring its maritime dispute with Thailand before a UNCLOS conciliation commission reflects a deliberate choice of law over confrontation and diplomacy over tension, H.E. Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information, said as the first round of proceedings closed in Singapore.

The three-day session, running from Sept. 14 to 16, 2026, was held between the Conciliation Commission and Cambodia and Thailand under Article 298 and Annex V of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra said he was proud, as a Cambodian citizen, of the delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who served as Cambodia's Agent. He said the delegation presented Cambodia's position through legal, diplomatic and peaceful means.

He emphasised that engaging the conciliation mechanism is not a provocation but a legitimate avenue for dispute settlement provided under UNCLOS. Cambodia, he said, has consistently sought peaceful resolution of disputes with its neighbours in line with international law.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra said the true measure of good faith after this opening round will be concrete action — constructive engagement in the process, implementation of agreements, and measurable progress toward a settlement.

While the first meeting has concluded, he said the conciliation process is only beginning. He called for continued rigour, patience and reliance on international law and diplomacy to secure a peaceful and durable solution for both countries.

Source: H.E. Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information

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Reported by The Khmer Today