Cambodia, Philippines Envoys Vow Stronger Bilateral Ties within ASEAN Framework

His Excellency Chea Chandaravy, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to Romania, residing in Sofia, held a courtesy call and working meeting with His Excellency Noel Eugene E. Servigon, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Romania, in Bucharest on September 7, 2026. During the meeting, His Excellency Chea Chandaravy highlighted the excellent friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and the Philippines as members of the ASEAN family, expressing his commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and making them more fruitful. Cambodian Ambassador also expressed admiration for the Philippines' role as the rotating Chair of ASEAN in 2026 and its significant role in coordinating the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), which contributes to observing, verifying, and promoting the implementation of agreements related to the Cambodia-Thailand border situation. Regarding the Cambodia-Thailand border issue, the Cambodian Ambassador clearly stated that Cambodia's position is to maintain peace, protect sovereignty and territorial integrity, and resolve border issues peacefully in accordance with international law and the mechanisms agreed upon by both parties. He further emphasized that Cambodia continues to adhere to and faithfully implement the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) dated December 27, 2025, which includes maintaining a ceasefire, maintaining troop positions without additional movement, and continuing to resolve border issues through existing mechanisms. The Ambassador also stated that maintaining troop positions under a ceasefire does not imply recognition or determination of territorial ownership. Border demarcation and surveying should be carried out according to the official mechanisms of the Joint Border Committee (JBC) and based on relevant laws and agreements. Concurrently, His Excellency Chea Chandaravy noted that the role of the AOT is highly valued as an observation mechanism that helps verify the actual situation, build confidence, and contribute to ensuring the transparent and effective implementation of the ceasefire and other agreements. Both sides also reaffirmed the importance of jointly preserving ASEAN's peace, stability, solidarity, and centrality, and pledged to continue deepening the friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and the Philippines. Source: AKP Khmer