Kampong Chhnang, July 15 – Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet delivered a wide-ranging address during the inauguration of key achievements at the Royal Gendarmerie Training Centre (Phnom Chum Sen Reak Reay), marking the 32nd anniversary of Royal Gendarmerie Day. His speech highlighted significant national defence reforms, firm positions on border issues with Thailand, and support for eco-tourism development in military zones.
Defence Budget to Be Increased for Strategic Modernisation
The Prime Minister announced that Cambodia’s national defence budget will be increased to enhance the country’s defence capabilities in a strategic and targeted manner. Stressing that this expansion is not for aggression but for safeguarding national sovereignty, Samdech Thipadei outlined three pillars of military modernisation: infrastructure development, human resource enhancement, and equipment upgrades.
He reminded the audience that after the war and the Win-Win Policy, defence spending was shifted to social sectors such as education and healthcare. However, with Cambodia’s growing role regionally and globally, the time has come to reinforce its defence posture to match the current and future needs.
A recent military retreat involving top defence officials was convened to evaluate the next phase of reforms and to ensure the armed forces are capable of protecting Cambodia’s territorial integrity in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
Territorial Integrity and the Thai Border Issue
Addressing the ongoing border tensions with Thailand, Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed Cambodia’s consistent position and the urgency of resolving disputes surrounding the Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, Ta Krabei Temple, and the Emerald Triangle area.
He made clear that Cambodia has suffered historical territorial losses due to foreign encroachment and vowed to protect every remaining inch of the nation’s land. Referring to the Thai military’s incursion on May 28, 2025, as a violation of sovereignty, he called for the disputes to be brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to avoid burdening future generations with unresolved conflicts.
While keeping diplomatic channels open, Samdech Thipadei stressed that bilateral negotiations have reached a deadlock due to Thailand’s rigid stance—even disputing border lines on platforms like Google Maps. He asserted that international legal mechanisms now offer the only viable path forward.
Conditions Set for Border Reopening with Thailand
In response to the prolonged closure of border checkpoints by Thailand, the Prime Minister clarified Cambodia’s position: the “key” to reopening lies with Thailand. He outlined three specific conditions:
- Thailand must first announce the reopening and guarantee it will not unilaterally close the border again.
- All border checkpoints must be reopened simultaneously—partial openings are unacceptable.
- Operations must return to the pre-7 June status quo with standard hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Once these conditions are met, Cambodia is prepared to reopen its side within five hours. Emphasizing a commitment to regional peace and trade, he denounced the use of border closures as a political tool that impacts the lives of border communities.
Eco-Tourism and Multi-Agency Centre Vision
In a forward-looking initiative, Samdech Thipadei endorsed the proposal to designate a portion of the Royal Gendarmerie Training Centre as an eco-tourism zone. He directed all relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Tourism, to work with local authorities to implement the plan while preserving the area’s core function as a military training site.
The Prime Minister cautioned that the eco-tourism development must not interfere with military operations—especially long-range weapons training and live-fire exercises. He called for meticulous planning to ensure visitor safety and minimal disturbance from military activities.
Additionally, Samdech Thipadei supported constructing new roads within the training centre and tasked the Ministry of Rural Development, alongside General Sao Sokha, with implementing these infrastructure upgrades. He also proposed the site be developed into a multi-agency centre in the future.
Support for the Armed Forces and Patriotism
Reaffirming his trust in the loyalty and patriotism of Cambodia’s armed forces, Prime Minister Hun Manet commended the Royal Gendarmerie for their discipline, technical capability, and vital role in maintaining peace and security.
“I have strong hope and confidence in the patriotism, national devotion, and loyalty of all members of the armed forces,” he stated, pledging continued moral and material support to further elevate the professionalism of Cambodia’s law enforcement forces.
Also read, Top 10 Sectors to Invest in Cambodia Right Now
Conclusion
The premier urged the gendarmerie to remain a resilient, rule-abiding, and disciplined institution that protects national interests and upholds public confidence, adding that their contributions are essential to Cambodia’s peace and long-term development.
The multi-faceted address by Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Royal Gendarmerie Training Centre underlined Cambodia’s evolving defence priorities, unwavering stance on sovereignty, and efforts to balance military readiness with sustainable development.
In a single event, the Prime Minister outlined a vision for a stronger, more secure, and forward-looking Cambodia—anchored in patriotism, peace, and pragmatic cooperation.
