AKP Phnom Penh, April 30, 2026 --

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Prak Sokhonn, held a telephone conversation with H.E. Ms. Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, on the morning of April 30, to discuss regional peace, ASEAN unity, and the current border situation between Cambodia and Thailand.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, during the conversation, H.E. Prak Sokhonn expressed Cambodia’s deep appreciation for the Philippines’ good offices as the current Chair of ASEAN in facilitating dialogue among ASEAN Member States aimed at finding a lasting and peaceful resolution to the ongoing border issue between Cambodia and Thailand, it added.

The two Foreign Ministers exchanged views on the importance of strengthening ASEAN’s unity, centrality, and collective contribution to maintaining peace and stability in the region. 

They emphasised the need for continued cooperation among ASEAN members to uphold regional harmony and prevent tensions from escalating, it added. 

H.E. Ms. Maria Theresa P. Lazaro reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to its role as the lead coordinator of the ASEAN Observer Team tasked with monitoring the situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border. She also reiterated the Philippines’ readiness, in its capacity as ASEAN Chair, to provide a constructive platform for ASEAN Member States to work together toward a durable and peaceful resolution of the ongoing issues.

Both Ministers also reaffirmed their close bilateral cooperation and strong spirit of solidarity as members of the ASEAN family. They underscored their shared commitment to continued engagement in support of regional peace, security, and mutual understanding.

The telephone conversation reflected the strong diplomatic ties between Cambodia and the Philippines, as well as ASEAN’s continued role in promoting dialogue, peaceful settlement of disputes, and regional stability.

By Heng Panha