AKP Phnom Penh, December 29, 2025 --

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reaffirmed Cambodia’s firm commitment to peace, national sovereignty, and the protection of civilians following the implementation of an immediate ceasefire with Thailand, which took effect at noon on Dec. 27, 2025.

In a message addressed to members of the armed forces, police, and the Cambodian people on the occasion of the 27th Anniversary of the Peace Day (Dec. 29, 1998 – Dec. 29, 2025), the Prime Minister said Cambodia – having endured decades of war and genocide – fully understands the true value of peace and has no desire to return to armed conflict. He stressed that Cambodia consistently upholds international law and regional and global norms, particularly the UN Charter and the ASEAN Charter, in pursuit of peaceful coexistence with all countries.

Samdech Thipadei said the Royal Government has always prioritised peaceful solutions and continued negotiations to resolve border issues through technical and legal mechanisms. After extensive diplomatic efforts, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to an “immediate ceasefire in place” to halt hostilities and prevent further escalation.

He emphasised that accepting the ceasefire does not mean Cambodia has surrendered territory or abandoned its right to self-defence. Rather, the decision reflects the Royal Government’s priority to protect human life and reduce suffering, especially as more than half a million civilians have been displaced, thousands of children forced out of school, and families anxiously await the safe return of soldiers and police officers. The Prime Minister noted that the conflict has so far claimed the lives of 32 civilians and injured 93 others.

Under the ceasefire terms, both sides will maintain their troop positions as of the start time, without prejudice to border demarcation. Cambodia ensured this principle was clearly stated in the Joint Statement of the Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) held on Dec. 27, 2025, reaffirming that existing treaties and international conventions remain the sole basis for determining the Cambodia-Thailand border.

The two countries also agreed to resume work under the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) as soon as possible, particularly in affected border areas, to ensure long-term peace and stability. The ceasefire will allow displaced residents to return home safely, while the Royal Government has instructed relevant ministries to facilitate returns and provide interim solutions where conditions remain unsafe.

In addition, Cambodia confirmed that the 18 Cambodian soldiers under Thai military custody will be released and repatriated after 72 hours of full ceasefire implementation, in line with previous bilateral agreements, including the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration signed on Oct. 26, 2025.

The Prime Minister expressed deep appreciation to international partners—especially the United States, China, ASEAN member states, and Malaysia as ASEAN Chair—for their active support and mediation efforts. He also welcomed continued international engagement, including ASEAN observers, to help ensure effective implementation of the ceasefire.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet paid tribute to Their Majesties the King and the Queen-Mother, the armed forces, police, monks, and citizens at home and abroad for their unity, patriotism, and sacrifices in defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He called on all Cambodians to remain united, underlining that peace can only be achieved through lawful, peaceful means and mutual understanding.

Concluding his address, the Premier urged the public to maintain confidence in the Royal Government, uphold national solidarity, and use the hard-earned peace to advance Cambodia’s development and strengthen its standing on the international stage.

By C. Nika