AKP Phnom Penh, April 28, 2026 --

Cambodia has reaffirmed its strong commitment to international law, peaceful dialogue, and regional maritime cooperation during the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “The Safety and Protection of Waterway in the Maritime Domain.” 

Speaking to this important event, Senior Minister and Special Envoy of the Prime Minister of Cambodia to the United Nations, H.E. Dr. Sok Siphana, stressed that safe and secure waterways are not only vital for international peace and security, but also for global economic stability and sustainable development.

Cambodia commended Bahrain for convening what it described as a timely and important debate and aligned itself with the statement delivered by the Philippines on behalf of ASEAN.

As a firm supporter of the United Nations Charter and international law, Cambodia highlighted that its ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) reflects the Kingdom’s continued commitment to a rules-based maritime order and the responsible management of ocean resources.

Addressing growing maritime security threats, H.E Dr. Sok Siphana outlined some major priorities.

First, H.E. Dr. Sok Siphana emphasised that all maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy. The principles of freedom of navigation, lawful transit passage, and the safety of seafarers, as enshrined in international law, including UNCLOS, must be fully respected.

Second, Cambodia stresses the importance of enhanced technical assistance for developing coastal States. Capacity-building in maritime law enforcement, port and vessel security, maritime domain awareness, and timely information-sharing is essential to address emerging challenges effectively.

Third, the Council should adopt a more integrated and preventive approach that strengthens long-term resilience. Such efforts must be inclusive, timely, and consistent with international law and the UN Charter.

In his concluding remarks delivered in French, H.E. Dr. Sok Siphana reaffirmed Cambodia’s dedication to defending international law, promoting peaceful dialogue, and strengthening maritime security, particularly through efforts to combat transnational crime.

He also underscored Cambodia’s commitment to transparency and regional cooperation, noting that the Kingdom welcomes friendly foreign vessels to its modernised Ream Naval Base for joint exercises, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, and counter-terrorism cooperation.

The statement comes at a time of heightened global concern over maritime tensions and strategic competition across key international waterways, with Cambodia positioning itself as a responsible regional actor advocating peace, openness, and cooperative security.

By Heng Panha