PHNOM PENH – Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense has firmly denied reports that its troops have withdrawn from any areas under Cambodian sovereignty, insisting that its military presence in disputed border zones with Thailand remains unchanged.
According to a statement published on Monday by the Khmer Times, the ministry clarified recent developments along the Cambodian-Thai border and emphasized several key points:
- No Troop Withdrawal
The ministry stated that Cambodia has not withdrawn any troops from areas it considers sovereign territory, where Cambodian forces have long been stationed.
- Military Movements Within Sovereign Rights
All troop deployments, positioning, adjustments, and movements are internal matters conducted within Cambodia’s sovereign rights, aimed at maintaining readiness to defend national territorial integrity.
- Commitment to Peaceful Resolution
The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces support peaceful solutions to border disputes but remain ready to defend against any form of aggression, in accordance with government orders.
- Support for Bilateral Border Talks
Cambodia reaffirmed support for the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) negotiations with Thailand to finalize demarcation of unresolved border sections. The statement also referenced Cambodia’s plan to submit certain points to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The ministry urged the Cambodian public and media to rely solely on official government communications and statements from the Ministry of National Defense for accurate and credible information. (TNA)
