Vong Pisen, commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, has reaffirmed Cambodia’s firm commitment to resolving the Cambodia–Thailand border issue through peaceful means, in accordance with international law.
He shared the Kingdom’s position while presiding over a commendation ceremony for the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) in Cambodia, in Phnom Penh on April 2.
Mohd Farid bin Mohd Yusop, head of the AOT, presented a report on nearly seven months of operations.
He noted that team has carried out its mission with professionalism, closely monitoring the situation on the ground, promoting transparency, building trust between all relevant parties and supporting efforts to maintain stability and prevent escalation.
He acknowledged that the mission has faced challenges, including operational limitations, coordination complexities and the sensitivity of the security environment, but emphasised that the team has upheld high standards of professionalism, neutrality and integrity throughout.
Mohd Farid expressed his gratitude to the Royal Government of Cambodia for its strong support, particularly in facilitating security arrangements and coordination, enabling the AOT to carry out its duties effectively and safely.
Pisen thanked the ASEAN member states — especially the government and armed forces of Malaysia — for supporting the implementation of the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand and for contributing personnel to the observer mission. He described it as reflecting ASEAN unity, solidarity and commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region amid increasingly complex global tensions.
He stressed that the establishment of the AOT was not accidental, and that its mission would be recorded in ASEAN history as a significant effort in addressing armed conflict between member states.
Pisen also praised the individual AOT personnel for their dedication and sacrifices, noting that they have carried out field observations under difficult conditions, including night operations, inspections in harsh weather and even under pressure from gunfire.
He reiterated that ASEAN member states must preserve unity, centrality and cooperation in order to achieve peace, prosperity and development, adding that Cambodia will continue to pursue a peaceful and internationally lawful resolution to the border issue.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Philippines, as ASEAN chair in 2026, and voiced confidence that it will continue leading the AOT in supporting coordination and efforts to restore normalcy along the Cambodia–Thailand border.