PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Breaking News — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia has issued an urgent advisory instructing Cambodian embassies worldwide to warn both Cambodian nationals and foreign travelers against transiting through Thailand and to temporarily suspend the use of Thai airline services.
The advisory follows growing concerns over the treatment of travelers by Thai authorities, particularly since reports of Thai military encroachment into Cambodian territory. According to the Ministry, travelers transiting through Thailand have been subjected to detentions for questioning, unauthorized filming, and intrusive luggage inspections, causing distress and intimidation.
In a formal directive dated December 22, the Ministry instructed Cambodian diplomatic missions abroad to immediately inform travelers of the risks associated with transiting through Thailand.
“To prevent acts of intimidation and inappropriate conduct by Thai authorities, Cambodian diplomatic missions worldwide must advise travelers to avoid transiting through Thailand and to temporarily suspend the use of Thai airline services until further notice,” the statement read.
The move follows an earlier warning issued on December 16 by the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in France, which reported that European travelers transiting Thai airports en route to Cambodia experienced harassment and emotional distress.
The Embassy urged travelers to choose alternative international airlines and transit routes that ensure respectful and non-discriminatory treatment of passengers.
Despite the advisory, Cambodian authorities reiterated that Cambodia remains a safe and welcoming destination for international visitors.
“While these incidents occur outside Cambodian territory, they negatively impact the travel experience. Cambodia stands ready to provide a warm and friendly welcome to all visitors,” the Embassy stated.
The Ministry emphasized that the advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
📜 OFFICIAL PRESS STATEMENT
Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia
Phnom Penh, December 22 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Cambodia hereby informs the public that it has instructed all Cambodian diplomatic missions abroad to advise Cambodian citizens and foreign travelers to avoid transiting through the Kingdom of Thailand and to temporarily suspend the use of Thai airline services.
This measure has been taken following observations that, since the encroachment into Cambodian territory by the Thai military, certain Thai authorities have engaged in actions that constitute intimidation and inappropriate conduct toward travelers. These actions reportedly include unnecessary questioning, unauthorized filming, and intrusive luggage searches.
To safeguard the dignity, safety, and well-being of travelers, the Ministry issued a formal directive on 22 December instructing all Cambodian embassies and consulates to disseminate this advisory without delay.
The Ministry notes that the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in the French Republic previously issued a notification on 16 December, highlighting reports of harassment and emotional distress experienced by European travelers transiting through Thai airports en route to Cambodia.
The Ministry encourages travelers to consider alternative international airlines and transit routes that offer professional, respectful, and non-discriminatory services.
The Royal Government of Cambodia reiterates that Cambodia remains a safe, secure, and welcoming destination for all visitors and continues to uphold its commitment to peace, hospitality, and international cooperation.
This advisory shall remain in effect until further notice.