On August 1-2, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn hosted a field visit to the provinces of Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap, where he met with heads and representatives of 26 Diplomatic Missions and specialized agencies of the United Nations. This visit aimed to assess the ground situation in areas affected by the recent Cambodia-Thailand border conflict and to reaffirm the Royal Government’s commitment to alleviating the hardship of displaced communities.
The visiting delegation visited two temporary shelters for internally displaced people, where they interacted with 440 displaced families at the Phnom Thmor Kambor pagoda in Por Chas Village, Beng Commune, Oddar Meanchey Province, and 690 families at Prasat Banteay Srei pagoda in Sotnikum District, Siem Reap Province. According to the National Committee for Disaster Management of Cambodia, a total of 40,872 households or 136,013 persons were displaced due to conflict in five affected border provinces.
The diplomatic corps and United Nations Agencies who joined the site visit expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families for the loss of their loved ones and conveyed sincere sympathies to all those affected by the armed clashes. They emphasized the importance of full respect and effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement, as a critical step toward achieving a peaceful and lasting resolution.
“We have seen the devastating impact of conflict on civilians and armed forces who have been killed or injured,” said Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn during the visit. “I assure the displaced communities that we will make every possible effort to alleviate their hardship and ensure their safe return to their homes as soon as possible.”
The diplomatic corps and United Nations Agencies also voiced strong support for the continued dialogue between Cambodia and Thailand, with the goal of achieving a durable peace that would enable displaced communities to return home and resume their lives in safety and dignity.
During this visit, Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn also had a separate program to visit and hand over some gifts to the Cambodian armed forces in Samrong City, Oddar Meanchey Province.
Key Participants of the Field Visit
- Brunei Ambassador
- Singapore Ambassador
- Pakistan Ambassador
- Lao PDR Ambassador
- Turkey Ambassador
- Germany Ambassador
- United Kingdom Ambassador
- Japan Ambassador
- European Union Ambassador
- Indonesia Ambassador
- Myanmar Ambassador
- Malaysia Ambassador
- China Ambassador
- Australia Ambassador
- India Ambassador
- Republic of Korea CDA
- France CDA
- Philippines CDA
- Canada CDA
- Viet Nam DCM
- Russia 3rd Secretary
- United States of America Political and Economic Section Chief (UN Specialized Agency)
- FAO Assistant to FAO Representative
- HOM Protection Officer
- UNFPA Assistant Representative
- WFP Deputy Representative of WFP
A Call for Lasting Peace in Cambodia’s Border Region
The diplomatic visit to Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces serves as a reminder of the importance of peace and stability in Cambodia’s border region. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of regional relations, it is crucial that we prioritize dialogue and cooperation to achieve a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflicts.
With the support of the international community, the Royal Government of Cambodia remains committed to ensuring the safe return of displaced communities and promoting peace and stability in our nation. We hope that this visit will serve as a catalyst for constructive engagement between Cambodia and Thailand, and we look forward to continuing our efforts towards a durable peace that benefits all our people.