Cambodia’s foreign minister holds bilateral talks with ASEAN counterparts in Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (Dec.22,2025) — Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn held a series of bilateral and informal meetings with regional counterparts on the sidelines of a special ASEAN foreign ministers’ gathering in Kuala Lumpur focused on the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Sokhonn met Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on Dec. 22. The two ministers underscored the importance of continued engagement following their meeting in New York in September and discussed recent developments along the border.

Sokhonn briefed Balakrishnan on the latest situation, stressing the urgent need for an immediate cease-fire. He called for diplomatic negotiations and constructive dialogue to achieve lasting peace for both Cambodia and Thailand.

Later the same day, Sokhonn held a pull-aside meeting with Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavan Phomvihane. He thanked the Lao government for its hospitality during his recent official visit to Vientiane. The two discussed regional and international issues, including the deteriorating border situation.

Sokhonn voiced concern over escalating tensions and reaffirmed Cambodia’s readiness to restore stability through peaceful means, emphasizing the importance of shared peace, security and prosperity.

He also held informal talks with Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, continuing diplomatic exchanges on the border issue.

Before returning to Phnom Penh, Sokhonn met ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn. He raised concerns over what he described as a worsening humanitarian situation, saying nearly half a million Cambodians had been displaced by the fighting.

Sokhonn reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to peace, regional security and prosperity in line with the ASEAN Charter and international law.