Humanitarian Repatriation of 18 Cambodian Soldiers Marks Progress in Peace Efforts

Humanitarian Repatriation of 18 Cambodian Soldiers Marks Progress in Peace Efforts

Phnom Penh,31 December 2025 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia confirmed that, at 10:00 a.m. on 31 December 2025, 18 Cambodian soldiers, who had been held in custody for 155 days, were successfully released via the Prum International Point of Entry in Pailin Province and have now safely returned to the motherland.

The release was carried out in full accordance with the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) dated 27 December 2025, the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of 26 October 2025, and the outcomes of the Cambodia–Thailand–China Trilateral Meeting held in Yunnan Province on 29 December 2025.

The repatriation process was conducted transparently and under close observation by the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), ensuring strict adherence to international humanitarian standards.

The Royal Government and the people of Cambodia expressed their deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to all parties involved in facilitating the successful return of the soldiers, with particular recognition of the ICRC for its vital coordination role. Cambodia also highly values the constructive support extended by all stakeholders throughout the process.

The Kingdom of Cambodia believes that this long-awaited release constitutes a significant confidence-building measure, contributing positively to mutual trust, the restoration of normal relations, and the advancement of peace and stability between Cambodia and Thailand.