Cambodia, Thailand Pledge to Normalize Relations, Return Captured Soldiers

KOH KONG, Cambodia (Sept.10,2025) — Cambodia and Thailand have pledged to restore bilateral relations and return to normalcy following recent tensions, agreeing to repatriate captured soldiers “as soon as possible,” according to a joint statement issued after a high-level border meeting.

The commitment was made during the first Special Meeting of the Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC), held Sept. 10 in Khemarak Phoumin, Koh Kong province. The meeting was co-chaired by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Gen. Tea Seiha and Thai Acting Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Nakphanit.

“As a gesture of friendship, mutual trust and confidence, and a commitment to restoring relations,” Seiha said, “we agreed that captured soldiers will be returned at an appropriate time, on humanitarian grounds and in accordance with the Geneva Convention and customary international humanitarian law.”

The meeting also addressed regional supply chain concerns, following a request from Japan to consider reopening border checkpoints for essential goods transport. Seiha said both sides acknowledged the importance of maintaining critical flows to support economic stability.

On humanitarian demining, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to establish a Joint Coordinating Task Force within one week. The task force, led by the GBC Secretariats and supported by CMAC and TMAC, will identify priority areas and develop standard operating procedures for pilot clearance zones within one month.

“This will contribute directly to socio-economic development and the protection of civilian lives,” Seiha said.

The two countries also committed to strengthening cooperation against cross-border crimes, including arms and drug trafficking, human and wildlife smuggling, forced labor and illegal crossings. Interior ministries and national police forces were tasked with drafting a joint action plan to address these issues in line with humanitarian principles and national laws.

On border management, both sides reaffirmed the role of the Joint Boundary Commission as the primary mechanism for resolving survey and demarcation issues. They agreed to address incidents along the border with the aim of improving livelihoods for communities on both sides.

The second Special GBC Meeting will be held within 30 days, with Thailand as host. Seiha reiterated Cambodia’s firm commitment to peace, stability and cooperation with all neighboring and friendly countries.