Thailand and Cambodia Advance Border Demarcation, Prioritize Safety and Modern Mapping Technology
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A collaborative effort to resolve longstanding border issues took a significant step forward this week, as the Thailand-Cambodia Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) announced progress on demarcating their shared frontier. Following an Extraordinary Session held in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand, on October 21-22, 2025, officials outlined plans to replace damaged boundary markers and incorporate advanced technologies into the mapping process.
Collaborative Spirit Drives Progress
The meeting, led by Mr. Prasat Prasat Winitchai, Chairman of the JBC and former Thai Ambassador to Phnom Penh, and Mr. Lam Chea, Minister responsible for the Secretariat of the National Border Affairs of Cambodia, was characterized by a “friendly atmosphere,” according to a statement released shortly after midnight on October 23rd. This positive tone facilitated agreements on several key areas of contention.
Replacing Lost and Damaged Markers
A primary focus of the session was addressing the physical demarcation of the border. The Joint Technical Sub-Commission (JTSC) has been tasked with constructing new boundary markers to replace 15 that are either damaged or missing. Both nations have agreed to restore these markers to their original locations and positions. Furthermore, plans are underway to establish new markers for three existing markers that have been submerged, with a joint determination of their precise locations to follow.
Modernizing Mapping with LiDAR Technology
Recognizing the need for greater efficiency and accuracy, both Thailand and Cambodia agreed to expedite revisions to the Terms of Reference 2003 (TOR 2003). These revisions will pave the way for the integration of cutting-edge technologies, specifically Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), into orthophoto mapping. LiDAR’s capabilities promise to accelerate the surveying and establishment of boundary markers.
Addressing Urgent Topographical Concerns
Specific attention was given to the area between boundary markers 42 and 47, located in the Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaew regions. Officials agreed to finalize a Technical Instruction (TI) for surveying and placing temporary markers in this area, which presents urgent topographical challenges. The results of this survey will be presented to both governments for approval, ultimately informing a mechanism for addressing land ownership adjustments. It’s important to note that the placement of these temporary markers is solely for survey purposes and will not impact existing land boundary rights under international law.
Prioritizing Safety and Security
Ensuring the safety of survey teams was a paramount concern. Both sides committed to instructing local authorities – both military and civilian – to guarantee the teams’ safety from landmines, in accordance with Article 3 of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). They also pledged to prevent any obstruction or provocation that could escalate tensions in the area.
Fence Discussion Deferred
During the opening remarks, Thai representatives raised the issue of constructing a border fence to prevent cross-border issues, including accidental injuries, and illegal immigration. However, the Cambodian delegation indicated they lacked the authority to discuss this matter, leading to its removal from the agenda.
“Adjust Land Ownership” Framework
A senior official stated that the Cambodian side requested avoiding the terms “transfer” or “demolish” when discussing potential land adjustments. Consequently, the phrase “adjust land ownership” will be used to describe the process. A framework is being developed to guide the survey teams, with a timeline already established, though specific details are pending government review. Once completed, the plan will be presented to the respective governments to determine the implementation mechanism.
Next Steps and Future Meetings
The next JBC meeting is scheduled for the first week of January 2026 in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Mr. Benjamin Sukanchanatthi, Director-General of the Department of Treaties and Laws at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the meeting focused solely on territorial principles within the JBC’s mandate. He added that the Ministry would provide further details on related issues at a later date.
This latest session underscores a continued commitment to peaceful resolution and collaborative border management between Thailand and Cambodia, setting the stage for a more clearly defined and secure frontier in the years to come.
