Background
On February 26, 2026, the Cambodia Ministry of National Defence publicly confirmed its coordination with the ASEAN Observers Team (AOT) to monitor and verify the border situation in the Anseh geographic area within Choam Ksant district, Preah Vihear province. This follows a serious military attack by Thai forces in December 2025, which caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure and residences. The Cambodian government reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the ceasefire agreements and related peace accords signed with Thailand in 2025.
Scope of Application
This statement pertains to Cambodian border governance and security cooperation with ASEAN mechanisms at the Cambodia-Thailand border, specifically focusing on the Anseh area. It addresses coordination of observer missions verifying ceasefire compliance, civilian protection, and infrastructure status.
Key Provisions or Decisions
- Cambodian Coordination Group (CLG) facilitated ASEAN Observers Team (AOT) to conduct border observation, verification, and reporting at Anseh.
- Observers inspected both military frontline and civilian structures impacted by the December 2025 Thai military attack.
- Cambodia fully supports strengthening the mandate and role of ASEAN observers to ensure effective ceasefire enforcement.
- The government reaffirms strict adherence to the joint statements and agreements between Cambodia and Thailand, including the Third Special Meeting of the Joint Border Commission (GBC) held on December 27, 2025, and the peace agreement dated October 26, 2025.
- Emphasis on promoting stability, security, and normalization along the border zone through rapid recovery and peace implementation efforts.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This statement underscores Cambodia’s commitment to sustained peace and stability at the affected border areas. It may enhance confidence for stakeholders by reinforcing the government’s active involvement in conflict resolution and security cooperation with ASEAN partners, thereby potentially reducing border-related risks for future investment and operations in border provinces.
Official Source
Ministry of National Defence of Cambodia, Facebook post dated February 26, 2026: https://www.facebook.com/Ministrydefence/posts/pfbid02oEHWyF78XKcz8G5MSCakmtLpVfxrRupmqhmSjVm6UoQr3jdz5xCZExgBWy4qeMKZl
