INTERVIEW WITH H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority

Q&As on Cambodia’s Commitment to Ceasefire & Landmine Allegations

Q1: Has Cambodia planted new landmines along the border?

No. Cambodia has not, and will not, plant new landmines. As a State Party to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention since 1999, our record is one of clearance, not deployment, with over one million landmines and nearly three million explosive remnants of war safely removed.

Q2: But Thailand says its soldiers were injured by newly laid mines.

This allegation is entirely unsubstantiated. There is no credible evidence that Cambodia has laid new mines, and no transparent investigation has confirmed such a claim. Cambodia stands by its obligations under the Mine Ban Treaty and rejects any suggestion to the contrary.

Q3: How does Cambodia view the recent allegations from Thailand?

They are baseless. Public accusations without impartial verification are unhelpful and threaten the cooperative spirit established at the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee meeting.

Q4: Why should the international community believe Cambodia’s account?

Our record speaks for itself. For decades, Cambodia has worked with the United Nations, ASEAN partners, and the international mine action community. Independent monitors and donors know our work is transparent, technically sound, and internationally recognized.

Q5: Could Cambodian forces have acted without authorization?

No. Our armed forces operate under strict command structures. We are upholding the agreement to maintain current troop deployments and avoid any movement toward the other side’s positions.

Q6: What commitments has Cambodia made under the ceasefire agreement?

At the extraordinary GBC meeting, both sides agreed to hold current troop positions, cease patrols toward the other’s lines, and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. Cambodia fully respects this commitment.

Q7: What will Cambodia do now to resolve this issue?

We call for a fact-based, impartial investigation involving both sides and, if necessary, international mine action experts. We will fully cooperate to establish the truth and prevent future incidents.

Q8: Are you accusing Thailand of lying?

We are not assigning motives. Until an independent investigation is completed, allegations remain unproven and risk distracting from the shared goal of peace and safety.

Q9: How is Cambodia contributing to peace and safety?

We remain committed to dialogue, technical cooperation, and working with Thailand, ASEAN, and the global mine action community to uphold peace, protect civilians, and keep our shared border safe.