Phnom penh: Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its national interests through peaceful means and in accordance with international law, following the conclusion of a closed-door meeting of the Conciliation Commission established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) involving Cambodia and Thailand. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, in a Facebook post on the evening of Sept. 14, Minister of Information H.E. Neth Pheaktra said the meeting, chaired by Ms. Katrina Cooper, Chair of the Conciliation Commission, concluded that afternoon in Singapore. The Cambodian delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Agent of Cambodia, together with Cambodia's legal team and experts, participated in the process to safeguard the Kingdom's rights and national interests through peaceful means and in accordance with international law. H.E. Neth Pheaktra said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, the Royal Government of Cambodia has maintained a clear and consistent position that the country's rights and national interests must be firmly and responsibly protected while fully respecting international law. He stressed that Cambodia's decision to pursue conciliation under UNCLOS demonstrates its commitment to peace, dialogue, diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes through law. 'Choosing the path of peace is not a sign of weakness,' H.E. Neth Pheaktra said, adding that defending national interests through international law means standing firmly on principles, evidence and dignity. He noted that the opening statements scheduled for the morning of Sept. 15 would be delivered publicly and broadcast live, providing an opportunity for Cambodia to demonstrate to the international community its pursuit of peace grounded in law, dialogue based on respect for legitimate rights, and a fair and lasting solution. H.E. Neth Pheaktra also expressed strong encourage ment and support for H.E. Prak Sokhonn, the Cambodian delegation, legal team and experts undertaking the mission in the national interest. 'Cambodia chooses peace. Cambodia believes in international law. And Cambodia stands firm in safeguarding its rights and national interests with responsibility and dignity,' he concluded.