Authorities in Cambodia’s Banteay Meanchey province say Thailand may issue land titles to its own citizens, but such actions must not affect Cambodian sovereignty, particularly in areas where the two countries have not yet agreed on border demarcation.
Banteay Meanchey governor Oum Reatrey told local journalists on August 25 that issuing land titles on Thai territory is the right of Thai authorities. However, he stressed this must not impact Cambodian sovereignty or cover areas where the Joint Boundary Commission of the two countries has yet to agree on land demarcation. He also warned against occupying or using territory currently occupied or used by Cambodian citizens.
Oum Reatrey added that if land titles were issued in disputed areas, the provincial administration would immediately object. He stated that such actions would violate the spirit of the 2000 memorandum of understanding signed by the two governments and would undermine the negotiations of the Joint Boundary Commission.
On August 24, the Thai newspaper The Nation Thailand reported that authorities in Sa Kaeo province had promised to issue land titles to Thai citizens in Nong Chan village, Khok Sung district, which lies adjacent to Choek Chey village in Ou Beichoan commune, Ou Chrov district of Banteay Meanchey province.
In response, Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reiterated that the government remains committed to upholding the ceasefire and the spirit of good neighbourliness. The ministry said disputes should be resolved peacefully through bilateral mechanisms and within the ASEAN framework.
At a press conference on August 25, ministry spokesperson Chum Sounry said both countries should work together to build trust, reduce tensions, and strengthen cooperation rather than engage in accusations that risk escalating the situation.
The border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand has now stretched to two months and 27 days as of August 25. During this period, Cambodia has pursued diplomatic efforts urging Thailand to strictly observe the ceasefire in hopes of returning to a situation without conflict. However, Thai authorities have continued to show reluctance to seek reconciliation with Cambodia.
