Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has reaffirmed that Cambodia never asked Thailand to reopen border crossings that were closed earlier this year. He said some Thai politicians are using the issue to gain support ahead of future elections.
In a Facebook post late on November 4, Hun Sen wrote that certain Thai leaders have recently been talking extensively about reopening the border, which he believes could become a campaign topic in Thailand’s upcoming elections.
Hun Sen said the comments from Thai officials, including the prime minister, have created confusion among people in both countries, making some believe that Cambodia requested Thailand to reopen the crossings. He clarified that the decision to close or reopen the border rests entirely with Thailand.
“Thailand can keep the border closed for 100 years or even 500 years if it chooses. The key is in Thailand’s hands,” he said. Hun Sen added that the closures have not harmed Cambodia’s economy, but instead encouraged the use of locally made goods to replace Thai imports. He described it as an opportunity to boost domestic production.
The Senate President expressed support for ongoing efforts to improve relations between the two neighboring countries. He pointed to the recent joint declaration signed on October 26 by the prime ministers of Cambodia and Thailand, which focused on maintaining peace and cooperation. The agreement was witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently chairs ASEAN, and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Soeng Senkaruna, president of the Khmer Democracy Organization based in Australia, said Cambodia has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to respecting ceasefire mechanisms, but claimed that Thailand has continued to violate them and encroach on Cambodian territory in several areas.
He said Cambodia should continue to seek international assistance to help resolve border disputes and accelerate the process of bringing these issues before the International Court of Justice.
Thailand closed all seven of its land border checkpoints with Cambodia on June 24, 2025, citing unilateral security measures.
