(Phnom Penh): Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defence, said it is essential for Cambodia and Thailand to continue fostering this positive progress toward peace and stability, especially to restore normalcy in both countries' relations across all sectors, as well as for the benefit of both people.

Maly Socheata spoke on Thursday (Aug. 21) during a press conference.

The spokesperson mentioned that the full implementation of the ceasefire by both sides will create a favourable atmosphere for restoring peace, stability, and normalcy to the relationship between our two countries.

"After the ceasefire agreement came into force at the midnight of 28 July 2025, we have observed that there has been gradually positive development through bilateral discussion between the two countries. [...] Therefore, it is essential for both parties to continue fostering this positive progress toward peace and stability, especially to restore normalcy in both countries' relations across all sectors, as well as for the benefit of both people," the spokesperson underscored.

The spokesperson also reiterated Cambodia’s continued demand that Thailand honour the agreement by returning 18 Cambodian soldiers unlawfully detained after the ceasefire, who have now been held for 21 days. She stressed that the Ministry of National Defence, the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and the international community will keep pressing until Thailand complies with international law and returns the soldiers to Cambodia.

She added that the Royal Government, the armed forces, and the Cambodian people stand united in defending the nation’s territory, dignity, and sovereignty.
=FRESH NEWS