AKP Phnom Penh, August 12, 2025 -- H.E. Chhay Rithisen, Minister of Rural Development and First Deputy Head of the Royal Government’s Working Group for Kampong Chhnang province, met with families of soldiers deployed along the Cambodian-Thai border during a ceremony in Samaky Meanchey district this morning.

The gathering, held at the Samaky Meanchey District Hall, brought together 180 military families residing in the district. Attendees included senior officials from the Ministry of Rural Development and members of the Royal Government’s Working Group representing all nine communes of Samaky Meanchey.  

The event commenced with a tribute to fallen Cambodian soldiers who sacrificed their lives defending the nation’s sovereignty.

Mr. Chhuon Channa, Governor of Samaky Meanchey district, delivered a report on local conditions, including the repatriation of Cambodian workers from Thailand. He confirmed that 180 soldiers from the district are currently stationed at the border.  

Governor Channa also noted H.E. Chhay Rithisen’s participation in funeral rites for a soldier who died in the Ta Thao area of Preah Vihear province. Financial support from Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet was provided to the bereaved family.  
 
H.E. Chhay Rithisen conveyed regards from Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, and Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Red Cross, as well as Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and the First Lady, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet.  

The Minister expressed deep gratitude to military families for their sacrifices and reaffirmed the royal Government’s commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, in line with the July 28 ceasefire agreement. He urged continued public trust in the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen as the "guiding light of peace" and in Prime Minister Hun Manet.  

H.E. Chhay Rithisen outlined key factors behind Cambodia’s resilience: 1. Wise Leadership– The nation benefits from the strategic vision of Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet; 2. Military Discipline– Cambodian soldiers demonstrate courage and unwavering commitment to sovereignty; 3. International Support– Cambodia’s pursuit of peace is recognised globally; 4. National Unity– The "Khmer one" spirit unites citizens in support of frontline troops and the Royal Government.  

The Minister cautioned against misinformation, urging reliance on official sources. He called for solidarity to bolster soldiers defending the border.  

To conclude the event, H.E. Chhay Rithisen distributed relief packages from Prime Minister Hun Manet and Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet to each of the 180 families. The aid included: 25 kg of rice; daily necessities and 100,000 Riel (approx. US$25).

The ceremony highlighted the Royal Government’s support for military families and its dedication to national stability.  

By K. Rithy Reak