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, Government Spokesperson:

07:00AM, August 5, 2025

1. In a Royal letter dated August 4, 2025, His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, stated that, in light of the serious violations and threats to the country’s territorial integrity posed by the Thai Army, and in accordance with the spirit of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia, I hereby authorize Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, a five-star General of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and Chairman of the Supreme Privy Council to the King, to communicate with Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, on military affairs, national defense, and the protection of Cambodian national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

2. In this context, His Majesty The King expressed His deep admiration for the courage and bravery of all Cambodian troops who have valiantly fought on the battlefields for national defense and the protection of our people. His Majesty also expressed His deep admiration for the citizens nationwide who have shown a strong spirit of national solidarity and unity under the wise leadership of the Royal Government led by Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet as Prime Minister, in an ongoing struggle across various battlefields, including military, diplomatic, political, and legal fronts, to defend the nation, safeguard our national sovereignty, and protect our Cambodian citizens’ safety and lives.

3. Shortly after receiving the royal authorisation, Samdech Techo Hun Sen wrote on his official Facebook page in response to the Thai media report claiming he violated the Cambodian Constitution by engaging in the military affairs. Samdech Techo Hun Sen clearly stated that there should be no surprise, as a country’s leader has enjoyed the full right to defend the country from the invaders. Samdech Hun Sen further questioned the Thai Media’s critics : “Why are they so afraid of his involvement in the military affairs up to the point of making comments that interfere in Cambodia’s internal affairs?”

4. The Senate President emphasized that, having served as Prime Minister for over 38 years, he possesses more experiences than those critics and affirmed that there is no power struggle between the Royal Government and the Military in Cambodia. He encouraged the Cambodian people to have continued confidence in his ability to backstop the Cambodian Government on Military Affairs.