The newly accredited Canadian Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Christian DesRoches, has pledged Canada’s commitment to working with international partners to help resolve the renewed border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand.
The commitment was made during a high-level meeting in Phnom Penh on Wednesday.
Ambassador DesRoches, in a courtesy call on Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of Cambodia’s National Assembly, expressed “serious concern” over the recent escalation of tensions.
He cited reports of civilian casualties in Cambodia and the displacement of tens of thousands of people, stating that Canada “stands ready to work with international partners to help ease tensions and contribute to efforts aimed at ending the conflict and supporting a peaceful settlement.”
The Ambassador’s pledge to engage in resolving the conflict marks a significant diplomatic focus for Canada in the region.
In the meeting at the National Assembly Palace, Samdech Khuon Sudary briefed the Canadian envoy on Cambodia’s official stance regarding the hostilities. She asserted that the tensions were “initiated by the Thai side” and that Cambodia’s subsequent military actions were undertaken to defend its territorial integrity following what she termed “violations that crossed red lines,” stating that Cambodia had exercised over 24 hours of restraint before responding.
She reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the Cambodia-Thailand peace agreement signed in Malaysia on Oct. 26, 2025, and its ongoing adherence to the obligations outlined in that accord. She also thanked Canada for its consistent support and significant role as a long-standing development partner and major trade partner within the ASEAN region.
Beyond the immediate crisis, Ambassador DesRoches, highlighted the breadth of the bilateral relationship, noting that Canada, as a long-standing partner, would continue to strengthen cooperation in key sectors, including: Economic development; Education; Gender equality.
The Ambassador also looked ahead to the Francophonie Summit in 2026, which Cambodia is set to host. He noted that the event is expected to include an official visit by the Canadian Prime Minister, describing it as an “important opportunity to further deepen and expand cooperation.”
Furthermore, parliamentary exchanges are anticipated, with Canadian representatives scheduled to visit Cambodia to promote closer legislative and institutional cooperation between the two nations.
