ICJ Case Moves Forward Steadily Under Strong Cambodian Unity (Unofficial Translation)

ICJ Case Moves Forward Steadily Under Strong Cambodian Unity (Unofficial Translation)

As Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet announced on June 2, and with the full support of Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, a commission has been established to prepare legal documentation for filing a case with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding territorial disputes involving the Mom Bei area, Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, and Ta Krabei Temple.

The commission is responsible for reviewing and selecting international legal counsel, reviewing and approving documents for ICJ submission, coordinating communication with the Court, and representing Cambodia throughout the entire legal process … This marks steady progress, driven by the firm will of both the Royal Government and the Cambodian people to submit these four cases to the ICJ in defence of the Kingdom’s territorial integrity.

The lawsuit has received unanimous support from the National Assembly and the Senate, as well as broad public backing from Cambodians both inside the country and abroad, regardless of political affiliation. This collective support reflects a powerful sense of national unity and solidarity behind the Royal Government and the brave Cambodian armed forces. It also affirms the deep trust and strong affection of the Cambodian people towards the Royal Government.

Indeed, the Royal Government—led by former Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and current Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet—has demonstrated unwavering commitment to protecting Cambodia’s territorial sovereignty, without conceding even a millimetre. This commitment is not merely rhetorical; it is evidenced by tangible actions, such as border demarcation negotiations with neighbouring countries and the ongoing construction of the border ring road.

The decision to bring the cases involving the Mom Bei area and the Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch and Ta Krabei temple complexes before the ICJ further underscores the Royal Government’s firm stance on safeguarding territorial integrity. We must remember that both Samdech Techo and Samdech Thipadei are highly experienced, strong leaders who understand exactly what actions to take at each stage of the process.

Therefore, we call on all Cambodians to remain calm and patient, to approach the matter with reason rather than emotion, and to uphold a civil and dignified attitude. It is especially important not to fall prey to provocations from extremist groups in neighbouring country who seek to challenge our sovereignty. Let us take to heart the wisdom of the great Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, as quoted by Samdech Thipadei on his Facebook page on June 10, 2025: “Stay calm. Stay focused on main objective. Do not hesitate to strike when opportunity presents.”

(H.E. Pen Bona, Minister Delegate Attached to the Prime Minister and Head of the Government Spokesperson Unit)