(Phnom Penh): Pen Bona, Delegate Minister and Head of the Royal Government’s Spokesperson Unit, firmly dismissed Thai allegations that Cambodia planted new landmines, calling the claims baseless, unsupported by credible investigations, and self-fabricated to create trouble.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday (Aug. 12), Pen Bona underscored, “The Thai side’s accusations against Cambodia are unfounded, lacking any credible, independent expert investigation, and are self-made claims intended to stir up issues.”
As a State Party to the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines since 1999, Cambodia is internationally recognized for its achievements in mine clearance and its commitment to non-use of anti-personnel mines. The country has cleared over 1 million anti-personnel mines and nearly 3 million items of unexploded ordnance from past conflicts, saving countless lives and providing safe land for communities.
To date, there has been no official and transparent investigation to establish the facts in this matter. Therefore, all concerned parties are urged to avoid making any public statements. Baseless accusations could severely undermine the spirit of the ceasefire and erode mutual trust in this sensitive situation.
The Royal Government spokesperson added that the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) also issued a statement on 9 August 2025 refuting unfounded accusations made by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which accused Cambodia of laying new mines. CMAA reaffirmed that Cambodia maintains a firm position of neither using nor ever intending to use new landmines.
Cambodia expressed hope that Thailand will honour the points agreed upon in the recent Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) extraordinary meeting, especially Point 2, which stipulates that both sides must refrain from moving their troops, including avoiding patrols beyond their current positions.
Cambodia stands ready to cooperate with Thailand, other ASEAN member states, and the international mine action community to uphold peace and promote safety.
=FRESH NEWS
