AKP Phnom Penh, December 29, 2025 --

Cambodia is set to welcome back 18 soldiers currently detained by the Thai military tomorrow, according to Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Speaking in a special interview with the National Television of Cambodia (TVK) on Dec. 29, following a trilateral meeting with H.E. Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, and H.E. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, held in China’s Yunnan Province, H.E. Prak Sokhonn said that if there are no unexpected developments, the soldiers are expected to return to Cambodia at noon on Dec. 30, 2025.

“We have made all necessary preparations and hope that no problems will arise. By noon tomorrow, Dec. 30, 2025, we expect to welcome back our 18 soldiers so they can safely return home and reunite with their families,” he said.

“This is the outcome of the meeting held over the past two days,” the Cambodian top diplomat underlined.

H.E. Prak Sokhonn further noted that the Thai side has already informed the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which will assist in coordinating the release and repatriation process.

As of today, it marks 153 consecutive days since the 18 Cambodian soldiers were unlawfully detained by the Thai military.

By Heng Panha