(Phnom Penh): Cambodia is urging Thailand to expedite the return of 18 Cambodian soldiers still in Thai custody, stressing that their repatriation must comply with international humanitarian law. The call was reiterated by Ministry of National Defence spokesperson Lieutenant General Maly Socheata during a press conference on Sunday (Aug. 3).

“As of now, only two injured soldiers have been returned on August 1. The remaining 18, detained since 7:50 a.m. on July 29, have not been repatriated,” she stated. “Cambodia continues to call on the Thai side to return the rest of our forces promptly in line with international humanitarian principles.”

She added that the Royal Government remains actively engaged in negotiations, while also seeking support from Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair, to help accelerate the process.

The spokesperson further reaffirmed the Ministry of National Defence and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces' firm commitment, stating: “We will not abandon a single member of our forces, under any circumstance.”
=FRESH NEWS