Cambodia-Thailand Border: Defence Ministry Reports Stable Situation

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – The Cambodian Ministry of National Defence confirmed a stable situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces as of Saturday, August 9, 2025. The announcement came during a press briefing held in Phnom Penh earlier today.

Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Under Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry, addressed reporters, stating that the frontline areas had remained calm and stable from midnight until 6:00 a The confirmation seeks to reassure the public and international observers regarding the security situation in the region The border between Cambodia and Thailand has a history of tensions, particularly in areas surrounding the Preah Vihear temple While the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favor of Cambodia's sovereignty over the temple in 2013, disputes over the surrounding land have occasionally led to military standoffs The Ministry's statement focused specifically on the absence of any incidents during the stated period.

This suggests ongoing monitoring and surveillance along the border to maintain peace and prevent potential escalations.

Background

Details regarding the number of personnel deployed or the specific strategies employed to ensure stability were not disclosed during the briefing

The location of the stable situation, primarily Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, highlights the strategic importance of these regions Preah Vihear, with its historical and cultural significance, remains a focal point for both countries Oddar Meanchey province, adjacent to Preah Vihear, also holds strategic importance in maintaining border security Current SituationThe reason for the Defence Ministry's public announcement likely stems from a desire to maintain transparency and build confidence in the government's ability to manage border security Regional stability is crucial for attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth, particularly within the context of ASEAN integration A stable border environment also benefits local communities residing in these provinces, allowing them to pursue their livelihoods without fear of disruption Looking ahead, continued dialogue and cooperation between Cambodia and Thailand are essential for maintaining long-term stability along the border Both nations are members of ASEAN, which promotes peaceful resolution of disputes and regional cooperation Joint border patrols, information sharing, and regular diplomatic engagements can contribute to building trust and preventing future conflicts The Cambodian government's emphasis on stability aligns with ASEAN's broader goal of creating a secure and prosperous region The maintenance of this peace is vital for Cambodian citizens and the nation’s continued economic advancement within the larger ASEAN framework