Mrs. Sirilak Niyom, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, on 28 August 2025 welcomed and discussed the latest developments of the Thai-Cambodian border situation with Mr. Suzuki Hideo, Ambassador for Mekong Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. 

The Deputy Permanent Secretary informed the Ambassador of the facts regarding the Thai-Cambodian border situation and reiterated Thailand’s commitment to the ceasefire agreement, as well as to resolving the current situation by peaceful means, through bilateral mechanisms. 

The Ambassador reiterated Japan’s request for the reopening of the border, which the Deputy Permanent Secretary stressed Thailand’s ongoing security concerns, especially for the safety of both people and goods, as landmines illegally planted by the Cambodian side are still being detected, causing severe injuries and permanent disabilities for at least 6 Thai army personnel.

Given Japan’s key role in international demining efforts, as well as its capacity as President of the 22nd Meeting of States Parties to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention this year, Thailand therefore requested Japan’s support in pushing Cambodia to cooperate with Thailand in demining along the Thai-Cambodian border areas, which Japan expressed its full support.

Previously, on 27 August, representatives from the Delegation of the European Union to Thailand joined a field visit in Surin Province to inspect hospital and community infrastructure that sustained severe damage as a result of indiscriminate artillery attacks by Cambodian forces.

The delegation was briefed by the Deputy Governor of Surin Province, the Director of Phanom Dong Rak Chalerm Phra Kiat 80th Anniversary Hospital, and representatives from the Third Humanitarian Mine Action Unit, on impacts of the aggression to civilians, as well as government assistance for those affected. The delegation was also briefed about the laying of new landmines by Cambodia, a violation of international humanitarian law and obligations under the Ottawa Convention. 

This visit was an opportunity for the delegation to see first-hand evidence, meet with affected residents in the area, and discuss ways to provide support and assistance, following the European Union’s announcement on 19 August 2025, providing 700,000 Euros in emergency humanitarian aid to assist civilians affected along the Thai-Cambodian border.