PM Hun Manet Reaffirms Territory and People as Cambodia’s Top Priorities

Prime Minister Hun Manet has reaffirmed that safeguarding Cambodia’s national territory and ensuring the well-being of its people remain the highest priorities of the Royal Government of Cambodia, underscoring continuity in state policy amid ongoing regional and domestic challenges.

“The territory and the people have always been, and will continue to be, the main priority of the Royal Government of Cambodia—past, present, and future,” the Prime Minister said during a gathering with more than 3,000 outstanding students in Phnom Penh on Thursday.

The remarks were delivered at the Chroy Changvar International Convention and Exhibition Centre, where Mr Hun Manet met 3,020 students who achieved Grade A results in the national baccalaureate examination, along with those who earned Level 3 Technical and Vocational Education and Training diplomas. The event was both a celebration of academic excellence and a platform for the Prime Minister to address broader national issues.

Speaking to the young audience, Mr Hun Manet called on Cambodians to place their trust in the government’s leadership, particularly during times of uncertainty. He acknowledged the hardships faced by citizens but stressed the importance of resilience and national unity.

“Of course, we experience pain both physically and mentally, but we must remain strong,” he said. “When we face difficulties, we must be even stronger for the sake of our nation, because no one can strengthen our country more than we ourselves.”

Firm stance on border issue

The Prime Minister also addressed the sensitive Cambodia–Thailand border issue, reiterating that the government’s decisions are made with caution, balance, and responsibility, always guided by the national interest.

According to Mr Hun Manet, Cambodia’s approach to the border matter reflects a firm yet measured stance—one that seeks to protect sovereignty while avoiding unnecessary escalation. He stressed that all actions taken by the government are rooted in responsibility toward the people and the long-term stability of the country.

He reminded citizens that the Cambodia–Thailand border is an internationally recognised boundary between two sovereign states, protected under international law, including the United Nations Charter.

“The boundary between Cambodia and Thailand is an international border,” he said, adding that it is safeguarded by legal frameworks recognised globally.

Commitment to international law

Reaffirming Cambodia’s position, Mr Hun Manet made clear that the kingdom does not recognise any alteration of its boundary line resulting from the use of force. He said Cambodia remains committed to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity through lawful and peaceful means.

The Prime Minister emphasised that border disputes must be resolved based on international law and existing bilateral agreements. He highlighted the importance of mechanisms mutually agreed upon by Cambodia and Thailand, particularly the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), as the appropriate channel for resolving outstanding issues accurately and fairly.

Cambodia, he said, will continue to pursue peaceful solutions grounded in legal principles, rejecting any actions that undermine established agreements or international norms.

Unity as the foundation of strength

Beyond the border issue, Mr Hun Manet used the occasion to stress the importance of unity and self-reliance among Cambodians. He cautioned against overreliance on external actors, stating that national strength ultimately depends on the collective will and determination of the Cambodian people.

“No one can help Cambodia more than Cambodians themselves,” he said, urging citizens to stand together in defending the country’s interests and supporting national development.

The Prime Minister’s remarks echoed long-standing themes in Cambodian governance, linking sovereignty, peace, and development as interconnected pillars of national progress. By addressing students—many of whom represent the country’s future workforce and leadership—Mr Hun Manet underscored the role of young people in safeguarding Cambodia’s future.

Message to the next generation

The event also carried symbolic significance, as it brought together high-achieving students from across the country. Mr Hun Manet praised their efforts and encouraged them to contribute their knowledge and skills to national development while upholding patriotic values.

Observers noted that the Prime Minister’s speech combined encouragement for youth with a broader political message, reinforcing the government’s commitment to territorial integrity, peace, and stability at a time when regional issues continue to draw public attention.

As Cambodia navigates both internal development goals and external challenges, Mr Hun Manet’s remarks reaffirm the government’s position that the protection of land and people remains non-negotiable—now and in the years to come.