Cambodia and Laos Reaffirm Military Cooperation During Phnom Penh Talks

PHNOM PENH, Feb 17, 2026 (KPT) – The commanders in chief of Cambodia and Laos have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral military cooperation during talks in Phnom Penh, officials said Tuesday.

General Vong Pisen, Commander in Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, met Lieutenant General Saichay Kommasith, Deputy Minister of National Defence and Chief of the General Staff of the Lao People’s Army, on February 16 as part of an official visit.

Both sides welcomed what they described as positive momentum in defence ties, citing exchanges of visits, meetings under the Joint Security Cooperation Committee, and coordination to maintain order along the shared border.

They also highlighted cooperation in information sharing to combat terrorism and transnational crime, scholarship exchanges, and joint disaster relief operations.

Cambodia and Laos marked 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, elevating ties to a comprehensive and long term strategic partnership.

Officials said 86 percent of the more than 550 kilometre border has been demarcated, with joint committees continuing work on the remaining sections.

Military leaders said enhanced cooperation would help maintain peace and stability in both countries and across the region.