ASEAN Observers Inspect Cambodia–Thailand Border Amid Demarcation Calls

An ASEAN observer team has inspected a disputed section of the Cambodia–Thailand frontier, as Phnom Penh renewed calls for urgent boundary demarcation to allow displaced families to return home, Cambodia’s Defence Ministry said Thursday. The ASEAN Observer Team in Cambodia (AOT‑KH), joined by Brigadier General Antero S. Narcise of the Philippine Armed Forces, visited the Boeung Trakoun checkpoint in Thma Puok district on September 16. The mission was facilitated by the Cambodian Liaison Group and included on‑site inspections of the contested area. Governor Oum Reatrey briefed the delegation, alleging Thai forces had deployed shipping containers, erected barbed wire, dug trenches and built bunkers. Cambodian officials also accused Thai troops of damaging homes and civilian infrastructure and occupying Cambodian territory. The claims have not been independently verified. The ministry said such activities had prevented families from returning, reinforcing the need for the Cambodia–Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) to resume survey and demarcation work “as soon as possible.” Phnom Penh cited the Joint Statement of the third special meeting of the General Border Committee in December 2025 as the basis for its call. Cambodia reaffirmed its position on defending what it considers its internationally recognised frontier, citing historical treaties, maps and bilateral agreements, including the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2003 Terms of Reference. The Cambodian government remains committed to implementing peace agreements reached in 2025 and to restoring normal conditions along the border. The ASEAN observers’ presence provides international visibility as both countries face pressure to resolve disputed areas through existing mechanisms. The mission is expected to contribute to de-escalation and the establishment of lasting peace in the region.