Cambodia Hosts ASEAN Observers at Border Marker 37 to Assess Situation

On August 4, 2026, ASEAN observers stationed in Cambodia, led by a mission chief from the Philippines, visited and inspected the situation along the Cambodia-Thailand border at border marker number 37 (Unity Post), located in Ktiem Thma village, Kok Romet commune, Thma Puok district, Banteay Meanchey province. This inspection was facilitated by a working group from the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense and attended by Mr. Oum Ratry, Governor of Banteay Meanchey province. According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, the purpose of this observation mission was to provide ASEAN observers with a comprehensive understanding based on direct observation of the border area situation. Furthermore, it serves to demonstrate the Cambodian government's stance, which consistently adheres to resolving border issues peacefully through discussions and bilateral mechanisms, in accordance with international law, existing bilateral agreements, and the mandate of the Joint Border Commission (JBC). The Ministry of National Defense spokesperson reiterated Cambodia's firm position in defending the Cambodia-Thailand international border line inherited from the Indochina-Siam Border Commission. This defense is based on respecting international law, the principle of immutable borders, the French-Siam treaties, border demarcation protocols, maps resulting from the demarcation work by the Indochina-Siam Border Commission, meeting minutes, border post installation records of the Indochina-Siam Border Commission, the 2000 MOU, the 2003 TOR, as well as other relevant agreements and documents that both parties have consented to in the past. The aim is to resolve disputes peacefully and achieve lasting peace between Cambodia and Thailand.