Thai FM hits back at Cambodia at UN, calls for cooperation against online scam networks

2026-02-25 - 04:33

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – 24 February 2026, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow defended Thailand’s position on the border situation with Cambodia and called for stronger multilateral cooperation, as he delivered the country’s national statement at the High-Level Segment of the 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council at the Palais des Nations. In his address, Sihasak stressed the need for countries to work together at a time when multilateralism faces serious challenges. Recalling his tenure as president of the council more than a decade ago during a key period of institutional review, he said the body’s credibility and effectiveness depend on genuine cooperation among member states. He also described transnational online scam operations as a global human rights crisis, fuelled by weak rule of law in countries where such criminal networks operate. Thailand, he said, stands both on the frontline of the impact and at the forefront of international efforts to dismantle these networks, and will continue to advance global cooperation to tackle the problem. Responding to remarks made earlier the same day by Cambodia’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister regarding the Thai-Cambodian border, Sihasak accused Cambodia of demonising Thailand through what he called false accusations and distorted narratives. He said tensions followed years of encroachments and repeated provocations, including interference in Thai domestic politics, resulting in indiscriminate attacks and civilian deaths. He described the situation as a tragic episode in relations between the two neighbouring countries. The minister said Thailand has historically acted with goodwill towards Cambodia, providing refuge to those fleeing conflict and supporting humanitarian assistance and reconstruction after Cambodia’s civil war. Thailand’s intention has never been confrontation, he said, as the country understands that its peace is inseparable from Cambodia’s. Despite a ceasefire being in place, he added, Cambodia continues to internationalise the issue instead of rebuilding trust and moving forward as good neighbours, undermining prospects for peace. He also rejected allegations that Thailand was seizing territory, noting that both sides had agreed troops would remain in their positions at the time the ceasefire took effect, pending a final resolution through dialogue. However, he said provocations persist, with Thai soldiers encountering landmines and reports of shots fired across the border. Thailand remains committed to dialogue, he said, but has a duty to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all cost. He again asked whether Cambodia would choose the path of peace or continued tension and conflict.