AKP Phnom Penh, July 23, 2025 --

Cambodia has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to resolving its longstanding border dispute with Thailand through peaceful means and in accordance with international law. 

This reaffirmation comes alongside strong criticism of certain Thai media outlets, accused of employing "alarmist strategies" that distort facts and mislead the Thai public.

The remarks were made by H.E. Neth Pheaktra, Cambodia's Minister of Information, during a bilateral meeting with H.E. Ye Tint, Deputy Minister for Information of Myanmar, held on the sidelines of the 20th Asia Media Summit (AMS) 2025 in Siem Reap city this morning.

Minister Pheaktra emphasised that the Royal Government of Cambodia has consistently pursued peace, diplomacy, and legal avenues to address its border issues with Thailand. This includes seeking justice through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding four disputed sites: Ta Mone Thom Temple, Ta Mone Toch Temple, Ta Krabey Temple, and the "Mom Bei Area."

He strongly condemned certain Thai media for propagating "false or distorted narratives" about the conflict, which he claims leads to public confusion in Thailand and fosters misconceptions that complicate bilateral understanding. 

In contrast, Minister Pheaktra noted that the Cambodian public remains well-informed and resilient against misinformation, even during periods of heightened military tension along the border.

"The problem with fake news dissemination by some Thai media is that it not only misinforms the Thai people but also damages Thailand’s credibility internationally," he stated, referencing the phrase "Don't Thai to me," reportedly used in some circles to criticise disinformation from Thailand. 

He added that such misinformation has compelled the Thai government to confront its own citizens' misconceptions while also facing international scrutiny.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra underscored Cambodia's clear policy against fake news, which is underpinned by reliable official sources providing accurate and comprehensive information. 

These sources include the Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Royal Government Spokesperson Unit, and messages of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate, and Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia.

At the 20th Asia Media Summit, participating countries collectively voiced concern over the proliferation of fake news and condemned the use of "dirty strategies" to disseminate unsubstantiated accusations that damage national reputations on the global stage. 

Minister Pheaktra confirmed that AMS member states and participants acknowledged the threat posed by fake news and encouraged closer cooperation to combat disinformation.

In response, Deputy Minister Ye Tint of Myanmar expressed appreciation for Cambodia’s efforts and shared experiences in combating fake news, commending Cambodia for its effective organisation of the 20th Asia Media Summit. 

He noted that Myanmar, similar to Cambodia, frequently faces "groundless accusations and disinformation campaigns" aimed at undermining its international image.

Both Cambodia and Myanmar reaffirmed their strong commitment to enhancing cooperation across all sectors, particularly in information and communication, as they jointly address the growing challenge of fake news, a significant regional and global concern.

By K. Rithy Reak