According to Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence, the Head of Mission of the ASEAN Observer Team (HOM AOT) visited Preah Vihear Temple at 8:40 a.m. on May 14, 2026, with facilitation by the Cambodian Liaison Group (CLG). It was the first such mission under the Philippine chairmanship.
The ministry said the visit aimed to observe, verify and report on the border situation and recent developments around Preah Vihear Temple in Choam Ksan district, Preah Vihear province. It said the World Heritage Site had sustained severe damage in attacks by the Thai military in 2025.
Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokesperson for the ministry, said the observers’ work would promote transparency, accountability and mutual trust between Cambodia and Thailand by observing and verifying full and effective implementation of the ceasefire.
The ministry said these efforts sought a rapid return to normal conditions, peace, stability and lasting security along the border. Cambodia would continue to support the team fully and stressed the importance of strengthening its role and mandate.
The Cambodian government and Defence Ministry reaffirmed their commitment to fully and strictly implement the December 27, 2025 Joint Statement of the Third Special Meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee, the October 26, 2025 Joint Statement on the Cambodia–Thailand Peace Agreement and other relevant agreements, to improve safety and restore normal life for border residents in both countries.
