Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet has moved to reassure citizens that the newly agreed ceasefire with Thailand does not compromise national sovereignty. In a message delivered this morning, Monday 29th December, he stressed that the decision to halt fighting is a choice for peace, not a concession of territorial integrity.

 

The ceasefire, which came into effect at noon on 27th December, follows months of tense border clashes that have displaced more than half a million people. Hun Manet acknowledged the suffering of civilians and the sacrifices of soldiers, noting that 32 civilians have been killed and 93 injured since the fighting began. He said the government’s priority is to protect lives and allow families to return home.

 

“Choosing to implement this ceasefire does not mean that Cambodia has surrendered or abandoned its right to self-defence,” the Prime Minister declared. “On the contrary, it shows our determination to pursue peace and place the well-being of our people above all else.”

 

Under the agreement, both sides will maintain their positions without altering the border, which remains defined by existing treaties. The Joint Border Commission is tasked with resuming survey and demarcation work to ensure lasting stability. Refugees are expected to begin returning to their homes, while 18 Cambodian soldiers held in Thailand will be released after 72 hours of full ceasefire implementation.

 

Hun Manet also expressed gratitude to international partners, including the United States, China, and ASEAN members, for supporting the peace process. Malaysia, as ASEAN chair, has coordinated efforts, while the ASEAN Observer Team will monitor compliance on the ground.

 

The Prime Minister’s message carried a broader appeal for unity, invoking Cambodia’s long history of conflict and its hard-won appreciation of peace. He urged citizens to stand together, reminding them that “divide is death, united is life.”

 

For Cambodia, the ceasefire represents more than a pause in hostilities. It is a chance to shift from confrontation to negotiation, and to rebuild trust along one of Southeast Asia’s most sensitive borders. Whether this fragile truce holds will depend on the commitment of both nations—and the vigilance of the international community.

 

-2025-12-29

They need to lay heavy, metal paths so mines cannot be snuck underneath. Then walking or patrolling will be safer.