Cambodia Senate Rebukes Thai Newspaper Over IPU Assembly Coverage

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct.30, 2025) — The Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia issued a sharp rebuke Wednesday to The Nation newspaper of Thailand, accusing the outlet of publishing false and misleading information about Cambodia’s role at the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Hungary.

In a statement released by the Senate spokesperson, Cambodia expressed “profound disappointment” over the Oct. 29 article titled “Khuon Sudary outpaces Wan Muhamad Noor Matha in Hungary for peace agreement discussions.” The spokesperson said the report distorted facts and misrepresented official IPU documents and proceedings.

The Senate rejected claims that Cambodia attempted to block a resolution on transnational crimes and cyber threats, clarifying that the resolution was co-sponsored by multiple nations, including Thailand, Argentina, Chile, Poland and Sweden. Cambodia said it actively contributed to the drafting process and that the resolution was global in scope, not bilateral.

“It is regrettable that The Nation once again refers to the recently adopted IPU resolution as a ‘Thai resolution,’” the statement read. “Such false interpretation suggests either a failure to grasp the official text or a deliberate attempt to mislead readers.”

The Senate also denied allegations that Cambodia sought to manipulate committee membership or obstruct proceedings. It cited an official clarification issued Oct. 23, which outlined Cambodia’s “constructive and transparent” participation in line with IPU procedures and the Asia-Pacific Group’s consensus.

The article’s claim that Cambodia proposed a meeting with the Thai delegation was also refuted. The Senate confirmed a meeting with IPU Secretary-General Martin Chungong took place to discuss cooperation and the impact of fake news, but said no talks with Thailand were requested or mandated.

The statement further criticized The Nation for undermining regional peace efforts, referencing the Joint Declaration signed by Cambodia and Thailand on Oct. 26 in Kuala Lumpur.

“Cambodia values a free and responsible press, but freedom of the press does not mean freedom to fabricate,” the spokesperson said.

The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to truth, mutual respect and regional cooperation.