Cambodian Acting Head of State, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, and Ms. Bridgette L. Walker, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Cambodia, met this morning to affirm the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations.
During the meeting, held as both countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Samdech Techo Hun Sen and Ms. Walker exchanged remarks on the positive trajectory of their partnership.
According to H.E. Chea Thyrith, Spokesperson of the Cambodian Senate, Samdech Techo Hun Sen also discussed the current border tensions with Thailand. He provided an overview of the situation since the ceasefire agreement of July 28, which was initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The spokesperson stated that Samdech Techo Hun Sen expressed Cambodia’s desire to normalize the border areas and called for a permanent observer to ensure the ceasefire’s effectiveness. He also voiced concerns over the current situation, specifically highlighting actions against civilians and the illegal construction of barbed wire fencing along the border by Thailand.
In response, Ms. Walker affirmed the U.S. desire to see a return to normalcy on the border. She also reiterated the U.S. position that both sides should establish an ASEAN Observer Team, as previously agreed upon.
The discussion also touched on the issue of Cambodian migrants being deported from the U.S. to Cambodia.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen responded that he would inform the Royal Government of the matter, clarifying that this was not a new problem. He assured that under any circumstances, as Cambodian citizens, the returnees would be a priority for the Royal Government upon their arrival in Cambodia.
