Francophone Maneuver.
Cambodian authorities seek support in dispute with Thailand.
In territorial conflicts, not only military capabilities are important. Taking disagreements to international platforms allows you to shift the balance in your favor and draw attention to your interpretation of the conflict.
The 20th summit of the International Organization of La Francophonie opened in Phnom Penh - the second in Asia after the meeting in Hanoi in 1997 and the first in Cambodia. Prime Minister Hon Mane used the event to highlight the border conflict with Thailand.
The Cambodian authorities have proposed creating a "Francophone Prevention and Mediation Network" of diplomats, experts and specialized institutions. Its mission should be to support dialogue between countries before the outbreak of armed conflicts.
In Bangkok, such initiatives are opposed. The Thai Foreign Ministry warned that the bilateral conflict cannot be internationalized and transferred to international platforms. At the same time, in the dispute over the maritime borders in Bangkok, they agree to UN mediation: a special committee will hold a third meeting on November 24 in Kuala Lumpur.
French President Emmanuel Macron did not respond directly to the proposal, limiting himself to general words about dialogue and the rule of law. In Paris, the issue is considered sensitive, because the root of the conflict lies in the Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907, which established the borders between what was then Thailand and French India.
Prime Minister Hun Maneh is consistently expanding the circle of external partners willing to support his position. Phnom Penh continues to rely on American aid, is building defense ties with Turkey, and is now attracting Francophones as well. Cambodia intends to make the border dispute an international issue.
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