AKP Phnom Penh, May 14, 2026 --

The Ministry of National Defence of the Kingdom of Cambodia has announced the successful facilitation of the inaugural mission of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) to the Temple of Preah Vihear under the Philippine mandate as ASEAN Chair.

According to a press release issued by H.E. Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Spokesperson of the Ministry of National Defence on Thursday afternoon, the mission took place on the morning of May 14, at 8:40 a.m., with support from the Cambodian Liaison Group (CLG).

The mission, led by the Head of Mission of the ASEAN Observer Team (HOM AOT), aimed to observe, verify, and report on the border situation at the Temple of Preah Vihear in Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sustained severe damage during attacks by the Thai military in 2025.

The Ministry stated that the deployment of the AOT is intended to enhance transparency, accountability, and mutual trust between Cambodia and Thailand through observation and verification of the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement.

“These efforts aim to facilitate a rapid recovery and a return to normalcy, peace, stability, and lasting security along the border,” the statement said, adding that Cambodia continues to fully support the AOT’s work and emphasises the importance of strengthening its role and mandate.

The Royal Government and the Ministry of National Defence reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the full and strict implementation of the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) dated Dec. 27, 2025, the Joint Statement on the Peace Agreement between Cambodia and Thailand dated Oct. 26, 2025, and all other relevant agreements.

The statement noted that these efforts are aimed at restoring normalcy, peace, stability, and safety for citizens living along the border areas of both countries.

By C. Nika