ASEAN Observer Team Key to Ceasefire Compliance, Cambodia Urges Greater Role

PHNOM PENH, June 24, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has reiterated its support for the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), calling for a stronger mandate for the regional monitoring mechanism to ensure full compliance with ceasefire agreements along the border with Thailand.

Government spokesman Pen Bona said Wednesday the observer team’s work was “essential” to implementing accords reached between the two countries.

Strengthening its role, he added, would promote transparency, accountability and mutual trust, while Cambodia remained open to support from friendly nations wishing to contribute.

Bona noted Prime Minister Hun Manet has consistently underscored the importance of the AOT at national and international forums, expressing appreciation for ASEAN member states’ backing.

Cambodia also welcomed the Philippines’ assumption of the ASEAN chairmanship from Malaysia, pledging full cooperation with the mission.

The observer team’s role was outlined in a joint statement adopted at the Third Special Meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee in December 2025.

Both sides agreed to bolster the mission’s authority in verifying and ensuring effective implementation of measures, including the use of border coordination units to manage incidents and prevent misunderstandings under ASEAN observation.

Bona said the Philippines, as ASEAN Chair for 2026, had continued to lead the mission to ensure continuity in monitoring and fact‑finding along the frontier.

Cambodia expressed gratitude to Malaysia for its earlier contribution and welcomed Manila’s commitment to sustaining the effort.

He added that ASEAN member states’ participation had provided an independent witness to the ceasefire and helped guarantee smooth implementation of agreements aimed at restoring stability along the border.