Cambodia Thanks France for Support on Peaceful Resolution of Border Conflict

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 26, 2025) — Cambodia has expressed gratitude to France for backing efforts to resolve its border conflict with Thailand through peaceful and diplomatic means.

The message was conveyed during a telephone call between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, according to an official statement released on Dec.23.

Sokhonn thanked France for its support of a settlement in line with international law, citing the ceasefire agreement signed July 28 and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of Oct. 26.

He warned that continued fighting had displaced more than 500,000 civilians and damaged infrastructure and ancient temples, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sokhonn also raised concerns over Thai military operations by land, sea and air, which he said violated Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He called for an immediate halt to incursions and full implementation of the ceasefire.

Barrot welcomed ASEAN’s call for renewed dialogue and described the planned General Border Committee meeting on Dec. 24 as a positive step.

He reaffirmed France’s support for diplomatic initiatives by Malaysia, China and the United States.

The two ministers also discussed strengthening bilateral ties, recalling former French President Charles de Gaulle’s historic visit to Cambodia and his call for respect for the country’s sovereignty.

Cambodia reiterated its demand for an immediate ceasefire and the release of 18 detained soldiers.