**
In a significant diplomatic move, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has reached out to France for support in resolving a protracted border dispute with Thailand. This appeal comes in the wake of recent violent clashes that have left over 100 individuals dead and displaced more than half a million people. The Prime Minister’s request, directed to French President Emmanuel Macron, seeks access to historical documents crucial for addressing the contested 817-kilometre (508-mile) frontier, which was first delineated during Cambodia’s colonial era in 1907.
A Legacy of Conflict
The border in question, established under French colonial rule, has been a source of tension between Cambodia and Thailand for decades. Central to the dispute are several historically significant sites, including the ancient Hindu temple of Preah Vihear, which is known as Khao Phra Viharn in Thailand. These sites have been flashpoints for conflict, with both nations asserting claims based on historical and cultural grounds.
In a statement issued on 4 February, the Cambodian foreign ministry welcomed France’s potential role as a mediator, highlighting the importance of “expertise and advisory support” in resolving the ongoing tensions. Hun Manet’s outreach suggests a belief that France’s historical ties to the region could play a pivotal role in facilitating a peaceful resolution.
Recent Escalations
The conflict has flared up dangerously in recent years. Last July, hostilities erupted following the death of a Cambodian soldier during a skirmish, which ignited weeks of rising tensions. The subsequent fighting, which lasted five days, resulted in 43 fatalities and only ceased after a fragile truce was brokered with the help of the United States.
However, the ceasefire proved to be short-lived. In December, renewed clashes led to the deaths of an additional 58 people and further displacement of civilians, culminating in a new ceasefire declared on 27 December. The ongoing volatility underscores the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further loss of life and human suffering.
Regional Diplomacy at Play
Following the December ceasefire, there were attempts to mend relations. In an effort to foster cooperation, the foreign ministers of China, Thailand, and Cambodia convened in Yunnan province. During this meeting, they emphasised the importance of rebuilding mutual trust, a sentiment echoed by Cambodian officials who have sought the reactivation of the Joint Boundary Commission to demarcate the border officially.
However, Thailand has yet to confirm its participation in these discussions, which raises questions about the feasibility of a collaborative approach to resolving the territorial disagreements. Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn has indicated that addressing the issue of occupied villages will be a priority, as it directly impacts the lives of those displaced by the conflict.
Why it Matters
The resolution of the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute is not merely a bilateral issue; it has broader implications for regional stability in Southeast Asia. With both countries facing significant internal challenges, including economic pressures and social unrest, a peaceful settlement could foster greater cooperation and security in the region. France’s involvement, given its historical connection to Cambodia, could provide a unique pathway towards achieving a lasting peace, ultimately benefiting the millions affected by the conflict. The stakes are high, and the international community will be watching closely as these nations navigate their complex relationship.
