Cambodia Engages France in Diplomatic Push for Peaceful Resolution

Cambodia Engages France in Diplomatic Push for Peaceful Resolution

Phnom Penh, 24 December 2025 — His Excellency PRAK Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia, held a telephone conversation on the afternoon of 23 December 2025 with His Excellency Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, amid the ongoing Cambodia–Thailand border situation.

During the exchange, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn expressed Cambodia’s deep appreciation for France’s consistent support for the peace process, particularly its backing of the 28 July 2025 ceasefire agreement and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of 26 October 2025. He also underscored the deteriorating humanitarian situation, noting that more than half a million Cambodian civilians have been displaced, and highlighted the damage inflicted on Cambodia’s cultural heritage sites in the context of the hostilities.

In response, Minister Jean-Noël Barrot welcomed the statement by the ASEAN Chair delivered at the Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the current situation between Cambodia and Thailand, held on 22 December 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, particularly the call for the resumption of dialogue to resolve the border dispute. He further expressed France’s support for the convening of the General Border Committee Meeting, scheduled for 24 December 2025, viewing it as a constructive step toward de-escalation.

The French Foreign Minister also reaffirmed France’s support for diplomatic efforts led by Malaysia, China, and the United States aimed at achieving a peaceful and negotiated resolution to the conflict.

At the conclusion of the conversation, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn reiterated Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to peace and to the full and faithful implementation of the ceasefire, reaffirming Phnom Penh’s dedication to resolving the dispute through dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law.