27/07/2025
Dear UNESCO,
Cambodia is a peaceful nation that has always sought harmony and mutual respect with our neighbors. We have endured great suffering in our history — from internal conflict to foreign invasions — and that is why today, more than ever, we stand firmly for peace. Our people do not want war. We want peace, stability, and cooperation for the development of our country and the well-being of future generations.
Unfortunately, recent tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border in 2025 have once again threatened that peace. Just as in the past — during the violent border clashes from 2008 to 2011 over the Preah Vihear Temple area, despite the International Court of Justice ruling in Cambodia’s favor — it is again Thailand that has escalated the situation. Cambodian troops have been deployed not to provoke, but to defend our territorial integrity and protect the lives of our citizens.
Cambodia does not seek conflict. We have always pursued diplomatic dialogue, legal resolution, and regional cooperation. We urge Thailand to de-escalate, respect the sovereignty of our nation, and return to peaceful negotiations. Cambodia stands united — not in aggression, but in the defense of peace, justice, and our rightful borders. We call on the international community to stand with us in preserving peace and preventing further violence.
