AKP Phnom Penh, August 03, 2025 --

H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Under Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, has reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution of the border dispute with Thailand and to restoring peace, stability, cooperation, and development for the peoples of both nations.

The reaffirmation was made during a press briefing held this afternoon in Phnom Penh.

Regarding the Cambodian military personnel captured by Thailand since July 29, 2025, H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata stated that, as of this afternoon, only two young personnel have been returned to Cambodia on Aug. 1, while the remaining individuals are still being held.

She once again called on Thailand to repatriate the remaining personnel in accordance with international law. She added that the Royal Government of Cambodia is actively engaged in negotiations and has formally requested Malaysia, in its capacity as Chair of ASEAN, to mediate and urge the Thai authorities to expedite their return.

“The Ministry of National Defence and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces strongly reaffirm that we will never abandon any of our military personnel under any circumstances,” she underscored.

By Heng Panha