Press Briefing – Update on the implementation of the immediate and unconditional ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand

Press Briefing – Update on the implementation of the immediate and unconditional ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand

Keynote Address by H.E. Pen Bona, Spokesperson for the Royal Government of Cambodia:

7:00AM, August 31, 2025

After the ceasefire took effect over a month ago, calm has prevailed since midnight on July 28, 2025. I would like to reaffirm that this ceasefire agreement was initiated and coordinated directly by the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, through a special meeting held in Putrajaya, with Malaysia in its capacity as the ASEAN Chairman serving as the host, and with active participation from the People’s Republic of China.

Since the ceasefire entered into force, every second, minute, hour, and every day, efforts have been made to prevent further casualties and damages, both military and civilian. This demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to respecting the ceasefire, as they highly value human life, peace, and stability for our nation and people.

Nevertheless, the government has never compromised even for a second on defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is important to note that when the ceasefire took effect, armed confrontation was no longer a means to resolve issues. In contrast, in any outbreak of armed confrontation, the one who opened fire would be considered the violator of the ceasefire, which would lead to the destruction of peace as well as the efforts made so far through diplomatic channels. The party that conducted such actions would lose its support from the international community and would be called to be held accountable for its deeds.

Therefore, during the ceasefire period, diplomatic tools will be used instead of military forces to seek peaceful solutions. The General Border Committee of Cambodia and Thailand (GBC) and the Regional Border Committee of Cambodia and Thailand (RBC), which have recently held successive meetings, are examples of ongoing diplomatic efforts; further meetings are planned in the near future.

In addition to these meetings, active diplomatic activities include organizing diplomatic visits and facilitating the Interim Observers Team (IOT) composed of foreign defense attachés based in Cambodia, to inspect the conflict affected zones. Moreover, regular communication between the top leadership of Cambodia, Thailand, and Malaysia has also been maintained. At the same time, numerous meetings with various diplomatic corps have been organized as well, and many more are scheduled in order to broadly inform the international community about the situation on the ground.

Official diplomatic notes and protests have been made repeatedly to Thailand and other relevant parties. Our top leadership, even at home or abroad, remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts related to this border conflict. All diplomatic means and international laws are being utilized effectively.

It is important to note that the resolution of border issues must be based on technical and legal mechanisms, which are recognized internationally and agreed upon by both parties. No single party can unilaterally define its own border. It is for this reason that our government emphasizes diplomatic activities and international law as the best options, as they help protect territorial integrity and maintain peace.

Thank you