Sihasak challenged Cambodia at the UNHRC, pointing out Thailand has long faced territorial incursions. He recalled Thailand once offered refuge to war refugees but was falsely accused and misrepresented. He criticized these actions for turning the issue into an international dispute that undermines peace and stability in the region.
On 25 February 2026, reporters noted that on 24 February, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, delivered Thailand’s statement during the high-level segment of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council at the Assembly Hall, Palais des Nations, United Nations headquarters in Geneva.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs began his statement by recalling his tenure as President of the UN Human Rights Council over a decade ago, a pivotal time when the Council's work was reviewed. He emphasized that amid current multilateral challenges, countries must cooperate for the Council’s success and effectiveness. Furthermore, he identified cross-border internet fraud as a global human rights crisis stemming from lawlessness in countries that serve as bases for criminal networks. Thailand is directly affected and at the forefront of international efforts to address these networks, pledging to continue international cooperation to combat them.
The Minister responded to remarks by Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs that referenced Thailand amid the border dispute during the same day's high-level meeting. He stated Cambodia accused Thailand based on false statements and distorted rhetoric to portray Thailand as the culprit. The root of the conflict arises from repeated violations and provocations, including Cambodia’s interference in Thailand’s internal politics, causing tensions that escalated to indiscriminate attacks resulting in civilian casualties—a tragic event in the bilateral relations between the neighboring countries.
He added that historically, Thailand has always wished well for Cambodia, providing refuge to those fleeing conflict, humanitarian aid, and assistance in post-civil war reconstruction. Thailand never intended confrontation, understanding that Thailand’s peace is inseparable from Cambodia’s peace. Despite a current ceasefire agreement, instead of building mutual trust and progressing as good neighbors, Cambodia has escalated the issue into an international matter, undermining prospects for peace.
Regarding allegations that Thailand occupies Cambodian territory, the facts show both sides negotiated and agreed that forces remain at original bases during the ceasefire while awaiting further discussion. To date, Cambodia continues provocations; Thai soldiers still face landmines, and Cambodia fires across the border even today. Thailand reaffirms its commitment to negotiations but has an unconditional duty to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Minister questioned Cambodia’s choice between the path of peace or continued tension and conflict.