Vietnam Urges Restraint, ASEAN Unity as Cambodia–Thailand Border Tensions Escalate

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 9, 2025) — Vietnam voiced deep concern Tuesday over escalating clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, urging both countries to exercise maximum restraint and uphold principles of ASEAN unity, regional stability and international law.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang told VietNamNet that Vietnam is closely monitoring the situation and called on both sides to avoid the use of force, fully implement ceasefire commitments and resolve disputes through peaceful dialogue.

“As a neighboring country and fellow ASEAN member, Vietnam calls on both sides to exercise maximum restraint, avoid the use of force, fully implement the ceasefire agreement, and continue dialogue to resolve disputes peacefully and satisfactorily,” she said.

She stressed that actions must align with international law, the UN Charter, the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, emphasizing that ASEAN solidarity should guide all efforts to maintain peace. She affirmed Vietnam will continue contributing to dialogue and ceasefire implementation in the “ASEAN spirit of friendship and solidarity.”

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reinforced Vietnam’s support for de escalation during talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, warning that prolonged tensions risk undermining ASEAN unity.

Vietnam’s appeal comes amid mounting international concern, with the United States, France, Australia, Japan, Canada, the UN and the ICRC all urging a halt to hostilities.