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. Chum Sounry, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC):
11:00AM, August 8, 2025
The global reactions to the General Border Committee meeting were overwhelmingly positive:
– Regional states and ASEAN institutions lauded the agreement and observer mechanisms as steps toward peaceful de-escalation.
– International media and diplomats showed optimism, strong interest.
– Media coverage emphasized the significance of this agreement in defusing the conflict.
– However, the reports noted that while progress was made, some concerns—particularly regarding the fate of 18 Cambodian soldiers currently under the control of Thailand—remain unresolved.
I. I wish to touch on some main points in reactions of Malaysia, U.S., and China:
1. Malaysia
– The GBC meeting in Kuala Lumpur was held in a “constructive and positive atmosphere,” yielding a 13‑point agreement.
– Malaysia also coordinates the Interim Observer Teams, part of ASEAN efforts to monitor the ceasefire.
2. United States:
– The U.S. called the GBC outcomes an “important milestone,” noting that achieving a durable, sustainable ceasefire remains the main goal.
– The U.S. presence was significant, which underscores Washington’s continued engagement and support for ASEAN-led mediation efforts.
3. China
– China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson welcomed the GBC meeting and the mechanisms being established to sustain the ceasefire. He affirmed that China would continue supporting ASEAN-led peace processes and “play a constructive role” in the restoration of Cambodia–Thailand relations
II. Cambodia’s Reaction Regarding the ICRC’s Visit to Captured Cambodian Soldiers:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC) has been closely monitoring the situation of the 18 Cambodian military personnel currently under the control of the Thai military. The Ministry takes positive note of the recent visit by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) 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 Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 7 August 2025.
The MFAIC appreciates the ICRC’s visit, which helps ensure that the basic rights and dignity of the 18 Cambodian soldiers are respected in accordance with the 1949 Geneva Conventions. Cambodia regards this as an important step toward transparency and adherence to international humanitarian law.
However, Cambodia maintains a cautious stance, emphasizing that the continued detention of the 18 Cambodian soldiers — who were captured during an agreed ceasefire — raises legal and ethical concerns.
With reference to Thailand’s claim that the Cambodian soldiers “will be released and repatriated without delay after the end of hostilities,” as stated in the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ press release, Cambodia reiterates its call for their immediate and unconditional repatriation, and urges Thailand to prioritize good-faith dialogue and de-escalation, in the spirit of peace and cooperation.
