Cambodia Maintains Ceasefire as Thailand Plans Restoration of Ta Krabey, an Ancient Khmer Temple

PHNOM PENH, April 28 – Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the ceasefire along the Cambodia–Thailand border, while noting reports that Thai authorities are preparing to restore Ta Krabey Temple, an ancient Khmer heritage site in the frontier area.

On April 27, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn held talks with Thai representative Sihasak Phuangketkeow on the sidelines of the ASEAN–EU Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire and to implementing the 2025 General Border Committee (GBC) joint statement, with Cambodia noting that lasting peace depends on respect for international law and existing agreements.

On April 28, Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense arranged a Military Attaché Corps visit to observe border conditions, aiming to demonstrate transparency and commitment to peaceful principles.

Observers note that any restoration work in disputed or sensitive border areas should follow mutually agreed boundary demarcation processes. They stress that clear border measurement and bilateral agreement are essential before undertaking activities that could be perceived as asserting territorial claims, particularly at culturally significant sites such as Ta Krabey Temple.

Thai media reports indicate that Bangkok plans to allocate approximately 20 million baht (about $550,000) over two years for the restoration project, known in Thailand as Ta Kwai.

Cambodian officials noted that maintaining stability and confidence-building measures remains a priority, with continued emphasis on dialogue and legal frameworks to resolve outstanding issues. They added that a diplomatic letter has been sent urging Thailand to adhere to the Joint Border Committee (JBC) agreement, and reiterated that Cambodia does not recognize any border changes imposed by force.

Reported by The Khmer Daily News – International Desk