(Battambang): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Cambodia has historically used international law and diplomacy, rather than military force, to reclaim territory from Thailand.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Oct. 8) while presiding over the graduation ceremony for 2,001 students at the University of Management and Economics in Battambang province.

Recalling Battambang’s history, the premier said the province was under Siamese control for about 100 years, then under Japanese military administration for five years. He stated the territory was ultimately returned to Cambodia through international law and diplomacy, with support from France and other countries.

The prime minister added that Cambodia continues to pursue the return of areas currently under Thai control through legal instruments, international law, and diplomatic channels.

“Protecting our territory remains our duty. We are saddened that, following recent clashes, we lost control of some areas. We do not accept this outcome, as every battlefield bears the blood of our fallen heroes, including those from Battambang who sacrificed their lives defending our land,” he said.

He underlined that Cambodia will continue to pursue its claims through diplomacy and all available legal mechanisms, and will not accept any territorial occupation gained by force in violation of international law.

Samdech Thipadei expressed hope that the situation will soon normalise, allowing over 20,000 displaced Cambodians to return home.
=FRESH NEWS