Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, sent a letter to his Thai counterpart Maris Sangiampongsa on June 6, inviting Thailand to jointly bring the ongoing border disputes to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The content of the letter was revealed by the ministry spokesperson Chum Sounry.

Sokhonn noted that despite numerous bilateral mechanisms and goodwill efforts aimed at finding a resolution, the longstanding border disputes between the two Kingdoms have persisted for many decades.

These unresolved issues have remained a source of recurring misunderstanding and tension and have led to several unfortunate incidents, including the most recent  confrontation,  in Techo Morokot village, Morokot commune, Choam Khsan district, Preah Vihear province, when Thai military forces opened fire on a Cambodian army position, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier.

He said the May 28 incident has further underscored the urgency of finding a sustainable and peaceful resolution.

“Given the complexity, historical nature and sensitivity of these disputes, it is increasingly evident that bilateral dialogue alone may no longer suffice to bring about a comprehensive and lasting solution.

"In this context, the Royal Government of Cambodia believes that the most appropriate and peaceful path forward is to submit the matters related to Mom Bei, Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple and Ta Krabei Temple to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for adjudication,” he said.

He explained that a decision rendered by the ICJ, grounded in international law, would offer a fair, impartial and durable resolution. It would provide much-needed clarity on our respective territorial boundaries and, more importantly, help foster an environment of lasting peace, stability, and cooperation between our two countries.

“Such a course of action would also affirm our mutual commitment to upholding the rule of law, preserving regional harmony, and advancing the shared prosperity of our peoples within the ASEAN community,” he said.

“In light of the above, I respectfully urge the Royal Thai Government to consider joining the Royal Government of Cambodia in referring our border disputes to the International Court of Justice. Let us seize this opportunity to reaffirm our joint commitment to peaceful dialogue, legal resolution and a future of good neighbourliness,”the letter concluded.

Prime Minister Hun Manet explained earlier this week that Cambodia will take the issue  to the ICJ to achieve a solution as bilateral mechanisms had yielded few results.

He confirmed that other areas will be resolved bilaterally through the MoU 2000.