Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has called on Thailand to bear responsibility for the recent temporary closures and restrictions at some border crossings on the Thai-Cambodian border, warning that Thai citizens will face the most consequences. The statement comes amid tensions between the two nations, thus the temporary shutdown or reduced hours of key border checkpoints.
Hun Sen, now president of Cambodia’s Senate, told Cambodian media that the decision to close the border was a direct response to actions attributed to Thailand. He argued that the move would hurt Thai traders, workers, and communities reliant on cross-border commerce. “Thailand must acknowledge its role in this situation,” Hun Sen stated, without going into deep details.
The border restrictions at some border crossings, like Poipet, has disrupted trade and travel, with reports of long queues and economic losses on both sides. Local businesses, particularly in Thailand’s border provinces, are already feeling the strain, as Cambodian markets and labor are critical to the region’s economy.
Thai authorities have yet to respond officially to Hun Sen’s remarks, but analysts suggest the closure could escalate diplomatic tensions. Both nations have historically navigated complex relations, with disputes over border territories and trade periodically flaring up.
