(Phnom Penh): The Delegation of Cambodia to the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly has observed with considerable dismay that, on 23 October 2025, The Nation media has been shamelessly spreading false information and distorting the truth. This reckless disregard for facts seeks to unjustly tarnish Cambodia's reputation and its unwavering commitment to peace. Moreover, such unethical acts pose a serious threat to the promotion of peace, stability, and prosperity for the mutual benefit of the Cambodian and Thai people, according to a clarification seen by Fresh News on Friday (Oct. 24).
As a member of the Asia-Pacific Group (APG), Cambodia was duly nominated by consensus of he group to serve on the Committee-together with another representative from the region. At no time - neither before, during, nor after the nomination process - did Cambodia try to exclude, ignore, or marginalize any delegation.
The composition of the Drafting Committee, including its Chair and Rapporteurs, was determined by collective consultation among all six geopolitical groups, under the supervision of the IPU President and Secretariat.
Cambodia's objective within the Drafting Committee was to enhance cooperation and consensus on combating transnational crimes and cyber-scams that affect all countries without exception. Our delegation contributed constructively to ensure that the final text would:
- Reflect the transnational nature of such crimes;
- Encourage regional cooperation rather than blame or finger-pointing; and
- Uphold the principles of multilateralism and mutual assistance consistent with ASEAN spirit and IPU values.
Cambodia's collaboration with all partners, including China, Thailand, and other member countries member of the Committee, was based on mutual respect and shared interest to establish a balanced and effective resolution. With its constructive and active participation in the drafting process, the Delegation of Cambodia proudly expresses its full support for the newly adopted resolution, an achievement born of the collective wisdom, cooperation, and shared dedication of all member states represented in the drafting committee.
The claim that Thailand was "relegated" to an advisory role is both inaccurate and misleading. Under IPU practice, the sponsoring delegation of a resolution is always invited to contribute to the drafting process; however, its formal voting role within the Drafting Committee depends on the nominations made by its respective geopolitical group. This procedure ensures equitable participation and has been consistently applied to all emergency items in previous IPU Assemblies. In particular, the statement made at today's General Assembly did not indicate that Thailand was assigned to an advisory role.
The Cambodian delegation's activities at the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union were conducted with dignity and in adherence to the principles of transparency, professionalism, integrity, and sincerity, with a firm commitment to genuine cooperation with all nations in the global fight against online scams for the benefit of the international community.
=FRESH NEWS
