New Thai Prime Minister, New Prospect for Restoring Cambodia-Thailand Relations?

Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul (L) looks on as he leaves parliament following the announcement he had won most votes from MPs to become Thailand's next prime minister in Bangkok on September 5, 2025 | Photo by Chanakarn Laosarakham / AFP

In an article for Cambodianess, Him Rotha and Sreng Hengsal discuss what Anutin Charnvirakul's rise as Thailand's PM means for relations with Cambodia. Despite Anutin's willingness to resolve the dispute with Cambodia through "peaceful means" several constraints remain, such as Anutin's administration only lasting four months, and the prevalence of military influence in Thailand.

Anutin Charnvirakul’s rise as Thailand’s Prime Minister in early September signals more than a change in leadership—it could reshape the trajectory of Bangkok’s uneasy ties with Phnom Penh, where hopes for a reset are tempered by longstanding rivalries and intertwined interests.

For Cambodia, Anutin’s leadership offers both promise and uncertainty in a relationship shaped by centuries of shared history, deep economic interdependence, and regional geopolitics. One immediate expectation is that his premiership will help ease tensions and gradually restore diplomatic trust between the two neighbors.

Phnom Penh has already extended a hand of goodwill. Soon after Anutin was sworn in, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet sent him a congratulatory letter expressing optimism about the future.