11:00 AM, August 8, 2025
Keynote Address by H.E. Chum Sounry, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC):
- The global reaction to the outcomes of the extraordinary Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee meeting, held on 7 August 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. The response from the international community has been overwhelmingly positive. Regional states and ASEAN institutions have lauded the agreement and the proposed monitoring mechanisms as important steps toward peaceful de-escalation.
- International media and diplomats expressed optimism and strong interest in the outcomes of the meeting. Media coverage emphasised the significance of this agreement in defusing the conflict. However, reports also noted that while meaningful progress was achieved, certain concerns—particularly regarding the fate of the 18 Cambodian soldiers currently under Thai control—remain unresolved.
- Key reactions from Malaysia, the United States, and China:
a. Malaysia, the General Border Committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur was held in a constructive and positive atmosphere resulting in a 13-point agreement. Malaysia also coordinated the interim observer team, part of ASEAN effort to monitor the ceasefire.
b. The United States described the outcomes of the General Border Committee meeting as an important milestone, emphasizing that the ultimate goal remains achieving a durable and sustainable ceasefire. The strong presence of the United States at the meeting underscored Washington’s continued engagement and support for ASEAN-led mediation efforts.
c. China also welcomed the meeting. A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed support for the outcomes of the General Border Committee and the mechanisms being put in place to sustain the ceasefire. He affirmed that China would continue supporting ASEAN-led peace process and play a constructive role in the restoration of Cambodia-Thailand relations.
- Information concerning the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) visit to Cambodian soldiers:
a. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has been closely monitoring the situation of the 18 Cambodian military personnel currently under the control of the Thai military.
b. The Ministry takes positive note of the recent visit by the International Committee of the Red Cross to these 18 Cambodian soldiers. Cambodia welcomes Thailand’s facilitation of private interviews and physical check-ups conducted by the ICRC, as reported in the press release issued by the Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 7 August 2025. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation expresses its appreciation for the ICRC’s visit, which has helped ensure that the basic rights and dignity of the 18 Cambodian soldiers are respected in accordance with the 1949 Geneva Conventions.
c. Cambodia considers this an important step toward greater transparency and adherence to international humanitarian law. However, Cambodia maintains a cautious stance, emphasising that the continued detention of the 18 Cambodian soldiers— captured during an agreed ceasefire—raises serious legal and ethical concerns. Referring to Thailand’s statement that the soldiers will be released and repatriated without delay after the end of hostilities, as stated in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs press release, Cambodia reiterates its call for their immediate and unconditional repatriation.
- Cambodia urges Thailand to prioritize good-faith dialogue and de-escalation, in the spirit of peace and regional cooperation.
