CMAA Denies Mine-Laying Claims, Urges Thailand Cooperation

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has issued a strong denial regarding recent accusations from Thailand alleging the placement of new landmines along their shared border The allegations, which surfaced late Friday, threaten to undermine the fragile ceasefire agreement brokered just weeks prior between the two ASEAN nations In a press statement released Saturday morning, a CMAA spokesperson labeled the Thai claims as "unsubstantiated" and called for restraint, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a peaceful and cooperative environment "We are deeply concerned by these allegations," the statement read "They lack factual basis and risk escalating tensions at a time when both Cambodia and Thailand are committed to de-escalation and dialogue" The renewed focus on landmines stems from reports by Thai border patrol units who claim to have discovered freshly laid mines in disputed territories

These reports, which have been widely circulated in Thai media, accuse Cambodian forces of violating the ceasefire agreement and deliberately endangering civilian populations The CMAA countered these claims by highlighting Cambodia's long-standing commitment to demining efforts Over the past three decades, Cambodia has worked extensively to clear millions of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) left behind by decades of conflict This effort has been supported by international organizations and partner countries, including Thailand itself, highlighting a history of cooperation on this critical issue The organization reiterated that Cambodia is actively working towards being mine-free by 2025, a goal set under the Ottawa Treaty The controversy arrives at a sensitive time in the relationship between Cambodia and Thailand Border disputes, particularly over the Preah Vihear Temple area, have historically been a source of tension While relations have improved considerably in recent years, sporadic incidents continue to occur The ASEAN framework provides a crucial platform for dialogue and conflict resolution between the two nations The CMAA’s statement emphasized the need for a joint investigation to determine the origin of the alleged landmines and urged Thailand to share any concrete evidence supporting their claims We believe that a thorough and impartial investigation is the best way to address these concerns and prevent future misunderstandings," the spokesperson said.

Cambodia remains committed to working with Thailand in a spirit of transparency and cooperation to resolve this issue peacefully. The incident underscores the lingering challenges posed by landmines and UXO in the region.

Decades after the cessation of major conflicts, these remnants of war continue to pose a threat to civilian lives and hinder socio-economic development, especially in rural communities along the Cambodia-Thailand border The situation also throws into sharp relief the importance of continued demining efforts and victim assistance programs within ASEAN and beyond Experts say that further ASEAN cooperation, including sharing expertise, technology, and funding, are vital for creating a mine-free Southeast Asia They highlight the need for both Thailand and Cambodia to resolve the current dispute diplomatically, relying on verified information, and avoiding any action that could lead to renewed military activity The situation is being closely monitored by international observers and ASEAN diplomats, who are urging both sides to exercise restraint and uphold the principles of good neighborliness and peaceful conflict resolution