Calm Reported at Cambodian-Thai Border Amid ASEAN Delegation Visit
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence reported a calm situation along the Cambodian-Thai border in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces between midnight and 6 a. on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokeswoman for the Ministry, stated that Cambodian forces are maintaining "strong and full vigilance" in accordance with the recently established ceasefire agreement. The report coincides with a visit from an ASEAN delegation, aimed at observing and facilitating ongoing de-escalation efforts between the two nations.
The delegation's presence underscores the regional importance of maintaining stability along the border, which has seen intermittent clashes in recent months Our forces are adhering strictly to the ceasefire We are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to respond to any provocation," Lt. Socheata stated in a press briefing held in Phnom Penh.
She also reiterated the Cambodian government's call for a complete cessation of all hostile activities, specifically mentioning the alleged use of slingshots to launch projectiles across the border. While the situation is currently reported as calm, tensions remain.
The Cambodian government has accused Thai elements of using slingshots to harass Cambodian border patrols and villagers, causing minor injuries and property damage These alleged "slingshot attacks" have been a point of contention in recent diplomatic exchanges between Phnom Penh and Bangkok The ASEAN delegation's visit is seen as a crucial step towards building trust and confidence between the two sides
Background
The delegation is expected to meet with military officials from both countries, as well as local community leaders in the affected areas The aim is to promote dialogue and find a lasting solution to the border dispute
Current SituationCambodia has consistently emphasized the importance of resolving the issue through peaceful negotiations and within the framework of ASEAN principles The Kingdom views regional cooperation as essential for maintaining stability and promoting economic development in the region
A stable border environment is crucial for facilitating cross-border trade and investment, benefiting both Cambodian and Thai communities The situation along the Cambodian-Thai border has been a long-standing issue, with territorial disputes dating back decades
While significant progress has been made in recent years to demarcate the border, some areas remain contested The current ceasefire, brokered with the assistance of ASEAN, represents a fragile but vital step towards a more peaceful and predictable border environment Analysts in Phnom Penh suggest that the ASEAN delegation's visit reflects the organization's commitment to maintaining regional peace and security The situation also highlights the importance of Cambodia's role within ASEAN, as a proactive participant in regional diplomacy and conflict resolution
The outcome of the ASEAN delegation's visit will be closely watched, with hopes that it will contribute to a more stable and cooperative relationship between Cambodia and Thailand.
