AKP Phnom Penh, December 23, 2025 -- The Government of Japan has expressed its deep concern over the situation where military clashes have once again escalated between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Kingdom of Thailand since December this year, resulting in numerous casualties including civilians, refugees, and damage to civilian facilities in both countries.

Amidst this situation, the ASEAN Special Foreign Ministers' Meeting was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Dec. 22, and the Chairman's Statement was issued, which urged both countries to take immediate steps towards the cessation of hostilities and return to dialogue, said Press Secretary KITAMURA Toshihiro of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in a statement dated Monday.

He also expressed Japan’s deep respect for the diplomatic efforts of Malaysia, the ASEAN Chair, and welcomed this step towards easing tensions. Japan also renewed deep respect for the United States, which has been striving for peace, including the mediation of the ceasefire agreement and the Joint Declaration in Kuala Lumpur.

“The Government of Japan has consistently called for maximum restraint and peaceful resolution through dialogue to both countries at various levels and opposes any actions that could escalate the situation,” the Press Secretary stated. “Japan intends to continue efforts, in coordination with relevant countries including the United States and ASEAN countries, to promote de-escalation of the situation.”

By C. Nika