Thailand Agrees to Release 18 Cambodian Soldiers as Part of New Peace Accord

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 18, 2025) — Thailand has agreed to release 18 Cambodian military personnel who have been detained since July 29, as part of a newly signed peace agreement aimed at restoring diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Prak Sokhonn announced the development Saturday during a speech at Techo International Airport. The release is one of several key provisions in the agreement, which seeks to ease border tensions and rebuild trust.

“This is a crucial step forward in restoring peace, mutual respect and cooperation between our two nations,” Prak said.

Other major points of the agreement include:

• A mutual commitment to uphold the cease-fire.
• Respect for each nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence.
• The full restoration of diplomatic relations, which had been downgraded to the level of embassy secretary.
• Joint efforts to combat transnational crimes, particularly online scams.
• Clearance of landmines along the border, with priorities to be set by a joint working group.
• Withdrawal of all heavy weapons from the border and their return to respective bases.
• A pledge to resolve border issues peacefully and without the use of force.
• A reaffirmation of long-term cooperation to ensure peace and prosperity for both countries.

The agreement marks a significant shift in the tense relationship between Cambodia and Thailand, and both governments have expressed hope for a new chapter of peaceful engagement.