Cambodia Stands Firm: Hun Sen Declares No Plea to Thailand for Border Reopening

Hun Sen Reaffirms Cambodia's Stance on Border Closure

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – On September 23, 2025, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen publicly declared that Cambodia would not 'beg' Thailand to reopen their shared border, which has been unilaterally closed by the Thai military for over three months. Speaking via social media, Hun Sen underscored Cambodia's firm and unchanged position on the matter.

He stated that Cambodia has informed the Thai side that since Thailand initiated the closure, they must also be the ones to reopen it, without any negotiation with Cambodia. Once Thailand reopens its side, Cambodia would follow suit within five hours. 'This is Cambodia's firm position and it will not change. Cambodia will not lower itself to beg Thailand to reopen the border. Even if Thailand decides to keep it closed for another 100 years, Cambodia will not perish,' Hun Sen asserted.

Context of the Unilateral Closure

The border closure stems from a longstanding territorial dispute between the two nations, particularly concerning the area around the ancient Preah Vihear temple. Tensions escalated following a fatal incident in late May 2025, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. Subsequently, Thailand's military closed border crossings across seven provinces to nearly all travelers, including tourists and traders.

Reports indicate that Thai military commanders voted indefinitely to shut the border crossings to enforce Thai domestic laws on Cambodian villagers living along disputed areas. Additionally, concerns have been raised by Thailand regarding Cambodia as a hub for cybercrime and online scamming operations, contributing to the decision to maintain the closure. Domestic pressure within Thailand also plays a role in keeping the border shut.

Unexpected Economic Benefits for Cambodia

Despite the challenges posed by the closure, Hun Sen expressed an unexpected positive outcome for Cambodia's economy. He 'thanked' Thailand for its unilateral decision, noting that it has prevented the import of Thai goods and, in turn, led to significant growth in Cambodian domestic products.

According to Hun Sen, for over three months without Thai imports, Cambodia's markets have remained stable, with an adequate supply of goods and low inflation. He highlighted that 'Cambodian citizens, who love their country, have come together to support and consume locally made goods, which will contribute to long-term economic development.' This situation, he added, has demonstrated effective macroeconomic management within Cambodia.

International Implications and Call for Patience

The prolonged border closure has also impacted international stakeholders. Japanese investors, who have projects spanning both Cambodia and Thailand, have been affected and have urged Thailand to reopen the border for trade. Hun Sen noted that Cambodia has already granted approval for Japan to transport goods across the border and suggested that Japan consult with the Thai side regarding their requests.

The statement from Hun Sen comes amidst an ongoing Cambodia-Thailand conflict, which is currently under a ceasefire agreement. He urged Cambodians to remain patient, emphasizing the government's commitment to resolving the issue peacefully.