AKP Phnom Penh, August 03, 2025 --

The Ministry of National Defence has expressed Cambodia’s readiness to participate in the upcoming General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, hosted by Malaysia and observed by representatives from the United States and China, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability.

“The participation of these countries reflects a shared commitment to the successful implementation of the ceasefire and aligns with the broader goals of promoting stability, cooperation, and development for the peoples of both nations,” said H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Under Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, during a press briefing this morning.

The extraordinary GBC meeting is scheduled to be held from Aug. 4 to 7, 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. 

The Ministry of National Defence of Cambodia also strongly rejected recent false and baseless reports by some Thai media outlets, which have used fabricated images and misleading commentary to falsely accuse Cambodia of flying drones into Thai territory.

“These actions not only fail to support the current progress but also risk escalating unnecessary tension,” H.E. Lt. Gen. May Socheata stressed, urging the Thai side once again to immediately cease such activities.

She further called on Thailand to refrain from launching drones into Cambodian airspace, affirming that Cambodia will take appropriate measures in response to any such violations.

Regarding the 18 Cambodian military personnel still under Thai custody since July 29, 2025, H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata noted that, apart from two young personnel who were returned to Cambodia on Aug. 1, the others remain under their control.

Cambodia continues to urge Thailand to repatriate the remaining personnel in accordance with international law. The Royal Government is actively engaged in negotiations and has formally requested Malaysia, in its role as ASEAN Chair, to mediate and urge the Thai authorities to expedite the return of the remaining personnel. 

By Heng Panha