AKP Phnom Penh, June 25, 2025 --

Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, H.E. Aphi Santepundit Sar Sokha, today sharply criticised Thailand's handling of the aftermath of a deadly cross-border shooting that killed a Cambodian soldier on May 28, 2025. The incident occurred at dawn in Mom Bei area of Preah Vihear province.

Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha noted that the Thai government, military, and even opposition factions have deliberately distorted facts and created confusion since the tragic event. He stated that these actions are an attempt to conceal domestic political instability as well as the current Thai administration's internal failures, from both the Thai public and the international community.

"Rather than acknowledging the reality, they've staged a performance, portraying themselves as victims and attempting to paint Cambodia as the aggressor," said H.E. Aphi Santepundit Sar Sokha. 

"They claim the borders are open, while in reality, access remains restricted — a theatrical ploy aimed more at international perceptions than practical resolution."

The Cambodian DPM specifically challenged Thailand's claims of reopening border crossings, calling them disingenuous.

"Opening the gates but not allowing people to cross is not a gesture of goodwill — it's a tactic of deception," he asserted. He demanded that if Thailand is truly sincere, it must issue an official public declaration informing Cambodia and the international community that it has fully and unconditionally reopened the border crossings it had unilaterally shut down.

He further characterised Thailand's approach as an attempt to "open with the intention to close," labelling it a "toxic diplomatic tactic that assumes the world won't recognise its true intentions."

H.E. Aphi Santepundit Sar Sokha emphasised that the Mom Bei incident is not isolated, alleging that Thailand has extended provocative actions along the entire Cambodia-Thailand border.

"The bitter history between Cambodia and Thailand is well remembered," he remarked, drawing on historical tensions. He added, "Cambodia may be poorer, but we uphold dignity. Thailand may not know war, but Cambodia is weary from it."

He concluded by calling for mutual respect and equal cooperation, guided by international law, treaties, and existing mechanisms. 

The DPM reiterated that Cambodia, following the legacy of His Majesty the late King-Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk and the vision of Cambodian Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, and under the current leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, prioritises peace and human dignity.

"We do not demand much — only lawful respect and cooperation as equals," he stated.

By K. Rithy Reak