Sat Jun 14 12:09:33 UTC 2025: **Headline: Thailand and Cambodia Make Progress in Border Dispute Talks Following Deadly Clash**
**Phnom Penh, Cambodia** – High-level talks between Thailand and Cambodia concluded Sunday with both sides reporting progress in resolving their long-standing border dispute. The meetings, held in Phnom Penh, were prompted by a deadly exchange of fire last month in the “Emerald Triangle” region, which resulted in the death of one Cambodian soldier and heightened tensions along the shared border.
The Thai delegation, led by Foreign Ministry advisor Prasas Prasasvinitchai, and the Cambodian contingent, headed by Minister of State Lam Chea, focused on building mutual understanding through diplomatic dialogue. “Diplomatic dialogue remains the most effective way forward,” stated Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura.
While a definitive resolution was not reached during the weekend talks, the discussions represent a crucial step towards de-escalation. Both armies have agreed to reposition their soldiers to prevent future confrontations.
The border dispute, rooted in the demarcation of the 820-kilometer frontier during French colonial rule, has been a source of tension for decades. Undemarcated areas and contested ancient temples have fueled sporadic violence, resulting in at least 28 deaths since 2008.
In response to the recent tensions, Thailand tightened border controls, prompting Cambodia to place its troops on full alert. Threats of border closures and electricity supply cuts from Bangkok were met with Phnom Penh’s decision to cease purchasing Thai electricity, internet bandwidth, and produce, and banning Thai films on local television.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced earlier this month the country’s intention to file a complaint with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding four disputed border areas, including the site of the recent clash. Thailand, however, prefers a bilateral resolution.
Hun Manet emphasized that the ICJ case and border restrictions were not discussed at the Saturday meeting, but that Cambodia would send an official letter to the ICJ on Sunday. He sought clarity on Thailand’s position regarding joint referral of the four areas to the ICJ.
Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has criticized Thailand’s military for restricting border crossings and accused Thai nationalists of exacerbating the tensions.
The ICJ previously ruled in 2013 that a disputed area near the Preah Vihear temple belonged to Cambodia, a ruling Thailand does not recognize. The outcome of the current diplomatic efforts and Cambodia’s potential ICJ filing remain to be seen, as both nations navigate a complex and historically charged relationship.
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