Project Funding and Duration

The initiative is backed by a $5 million USD grant from the United States government. The funding is allocated as follows:

• CMAC: $4,000,000 USD for direct field operations.
• NPA: $1,000,000 USD for technical support, capacity building, and project management.

The project will span 18 months, beginning on February 1, 2026, and concluding on July 31, 2027. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Ms. Kelly Saltzman, political associate from the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia, reinforcing the strong bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Addressing the Legacy of the 2025 Border Conflict

The report highlights a critical and urgent need for demining following the 2025 border conflict with Thailand. This conflict left behind a devastating trail of contamination, including:

• Cluster bombs and air-dropped munitions (bombs/drones).
• The conflict also left behind remnants of chemical weapons and general explosive ordnance.
• Approximately 441,595 hectares of land remain under threat across 340 villages.

This contamination affects 91,411 families (roughly 364,694 individuals) across seven provinces along the Cambodia-Thailand border.

Operational Focus: Oddar Meanchey and Tboung Khmum

The project will deploy nearly 300 CMAC specialists into two dedicated demining units. While operations cover several border areas, the primary focus is Oddar Meanchey province, which alone has an estimated 40,400 hectares of suspected contaminated land across 145 villages.

H.E. Heng Ratana expressed his deepest gratitude to Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet for his support and extended sincere thanks to U.S. President Donald J. Trump, the American people, and the NPA for their steadfast commitment to Cambodia’s humanitarian mine action and national development.

FAQ: CMAC-NPA Demining Project 2026

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Humanitarian Concerns and Territorial Integrity

During a high-level meeting on February 5, 2026, Senior Minister Keo Remy, President of the Cambodia Human Rights Committee (CHRC), briefed U.S. Senior Judge John C. Coughenour on the deteriorating situation along the frontier. The Minister detailed a series of aggressive maneuvers by Thai forces, including:

• Strikes on Cultural Heritage: Allegations of heavy artillery and fighter jet strikes near the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear Temple.
• Prohibited Munitions: Reports of the use of cluster bombs and “poisonous smoke,” which Cambodia classifies as a direct violation of the 1949 Geneva Conventions.
• Displacement Crisis: Over 100,000 displaced Cambodians remain unable to return to their homes due to military barricades and shipping containers positioned by the Thai military.

Flouting the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration

The current tensions come despite the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration signed on October 26, 2025. This agreement, witnessed by President Trump and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, was intended to stabilize the region. However, Minister Keo Remy asserted that Thai “extremists” are ignoring international law and the spirit of the U.S.-brokered peace plan.

In response, Judge Coughenour expressed the U.S. administration’s support for Cambodia’s “unwavering commitment” to a peaceful resolution. He reportedly signaled disappointment in what he termed “unjustified” aggression from the Thai military side, while simultaneously praising Cambodia’s domestic progress in human rights, including the protection of LGBTQ+ rights and the continued abolition of the death penalty.

Impact on Regional Stability and Investment

For the international community and foreign investors, the stability of the Thai-Cambodian border is a critical factor for regional supply chains and tourism. While the political rhetoric remains high, the Royal Government of Cambodia continues to seek a diplomatic solution through international mediation.

The focus remains on:

1. Restoring the Ceasefire: Ensuring all parties adhere to the October 2025 agreement to prevent further displacement.
2. Protecting Sovereignty: Utilizing international forums to address territorial claims without military engagement.
3. Humanitarian Aid: Providing support to the 100,000 citizens currently affected by the border blockades.

FAQ: The Border Tensions & The Ceasefire

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The deal, signed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, follows a period of heightened tension along the border. Samdech Hun Sen credited the success to the strategic approach of Prime Minister Hun Manet, describing it as a policy of being “quiet, but not silent.”

International Support: The U.S. and ASEAN Roles In a move that highlights Cambodia’s growing international prestige, the peace deal was facilitated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia (as ASEAN Chair) and U.S. President Donald J. Trump. The presence of the United States as a witness to the signing underscores the global importance of a peaceful Southeast Asia.

“Maintaining peace—both domestically and with our neighbors—remains Cambodia’s top priority,” Samdech Hun Sen shared on his official platforms. He noted that this “early harvest” of diplomacy ensures that the two Kingdoms can return to a path of mutual economic growth rather than conflict.

Commitment to Implementation Prime Minister Hun Manet, who signed the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration alongside Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, reaffirmed Cambodia’s firm commitment to the agreement. The Prime Minister called on the international community to continue their support to ensure the peace endures and delivers tangible benefits to the people living along the border.

By resolving this conflict through high-level dialogue and international partnership, the Royal Government has demonstrated its ability to protect national sovereignty while fostering the stability required for 2026’s ambitious economic goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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A Mission for Global Stability Without Financial Burden

On the morning of January 27, 2026, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet addressed the nation to clarify the nature of Cambodia’s participation. The Premier revealed that the invitation was extended personally by U.S. President Donald J. Trump on January 16, 2026.

Addressing public inquiries regarding the costs of joining such high-level international bodies, Samdech Thipadei emphasized that Cambodia’s founding membership requires no financial contribution. He clarified that the widely reported US$1 billion entry fee is designated solely for nations seeking permanent or indefinite status, whereas Cambodia’s three-year term is based on diplomatic merit and peace-building expertise.

Peace as a Pillar of Cambodian Foreign Policy

The decision to join the Board of Peace is a natural extension of Cambodia’s existing commitment to international security. The Prime Minister highlighted several core principles driving this engagement:

• UN Peacekeeping Excellence: Cambodia has a long history of deploying specialized forces under the United Nations to conflict zones worldwide.
• Goodwill and Diplomacy: Leveraging the nation’s own “Win-Win Policy” history to assist in global conflict resolution.
• Active Neutrality: Positioning Cambodia as a bridge between major powers to foster dialogue and de-escalation.

Strengthening the Investment Climate Through Stability

For the international community and foreign investors, Cambodia’s inclusion in the Board of Peace—at the invitation of the United States—signals a significant strengthening of Cambodia-U.S. relations. This diplomatic alignment enhances the Kingdom’s “Country Brand” as a stable, responsible, and globally integrated nation.

A peaceful international environment is essential for economic growth in Cambodia, particularly as the country seeks to diversify its trade partners and attract high-value Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). By taking a seat at the global table of peace, the Royal Government ensures that Cambodia remains a safe and predictable destination for international business.

A Forward-Looking Diplomatic Strategy

As Cambodia embarks on this three-year term, the focus remains on “peace-loving values” and proactive contribution. This membership is not merely symbolic; it provides Cambodia with a platform to influence global policy and demonstrate its evolution from a recipient of international aid to a provider of international solutions.

FAQ: Cambodia’s Membership in the Board of Peace

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A New Chapter in Cambodia-U.S. Military Cooperation

On January 26, 2026, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet met with Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh. The discussions focused on the successful five-day port call of the USS Cincinnati, which both leaders hailed as a tangible sign of strengthening bilateral ties.

Admiral Paparo expressed his gratitude for the warm reception at Ream Naval Base, noting that the visit reflects Washington’s confidence in Cambodia’s sovereignty and its commitment to an “open and transparent” naval policy. This engagement follows a major reset in relations initiated in 2024, paving the way for the scheduled resumption of the “Angkor Sentinel” joint military exercises later this year.

U.S. Support for Regional Peace and Border Stability

A key highlight of the meeting was the recognition of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement, signed on October 26, 2025. Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his sincere appreciation to U.S. President Donald J. Trump for his significant role in witnessing this peace accord, which established a vital ceasefire along the Cambodia-Thailand border.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to:

• Peaceful Dispute Resolution: Adhering strictly to international law and the Kuala Lumpur agreement.
• ASEAN Cooperation: Supporting the continued deployment of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) to verify border stability.
• Demarcation Progress: Working through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) to finalize border lines with Thailand.

Admiral Paparo confirmed that the U.S. administration remains closely engaged with the border situation, supporting full implementation of the peace accords to ensure long-term regional security.

Investment and Strategic Security: A Stable Horizon

For foreign investors and international observers, the successful docking of a U.S. vessel at Ream Naval Base—alongside other international partners—dispel concerns regarding exclusive access and underscores Cambodia’s independent and neutral foreign policy.

This environment of military transparency and improved relations with the U.S. contributes directly to economic growth in Cambodia by:

• Reducing Geopolitical Risk: Enhancing the Kingdom’s profile as a stable destination for Western capital.
• Securing Maritime Trade: Strengthening cooperation in maritime security to protect vital trade routes in the Gulf of Thailand.
• Fostering Confidence: Signaling that Cambodia is a reliable partner in the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” framework.

Conclusion: Strengthening the Foundations of Prosperity

The meeting between Prime Minister Hun Manet and Admiral Paparo underscores a future-focused alliance built on mutual respect and shared security goals. By balancing strong regional ties with global partnerships, Cambodia is cementing its role as a pillar of stability in Southeast Asia, dedicated to sustainable development and international cooperation.

FAQ: Cambodia-U.S. Defense Relations

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Should the Thai Defence Minister reach an agreement with his Cambodian counterpart, the two nations intend to finalize a deal based on the previous pact brokered by US President Donald Trump following the initial round of hostilities in July. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the necessity of mutual commitment, telling reporters in Bangkok that both sides must uphold promises to end threats, provocations, and instigations to successfully reduce hostility.

While a spokesperson for the Cambodian Defence Ministry did not immediately comment, officials from both countries have been holding talks at a border crossing since Wednesday. The conflict has taken a severe human toll since the previous ceasefire collapsed in early December, resulting in at least 98 deaths and displacing over 500,000 people.

International mediation efforts have intensified as the fighting persists. Neither Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as the ASEAN chair, nor President Trump has yet succeeded in halting the current wave of violence. Additionally, Beijing has increased pressure on both sides, with China’s special envoy for Asian affairs, Deng Xijun, conducting recent diplomatic missions to both Bangkok and Phnom Penh.

“I hope that this time will be the last time to sign such an agreement, so that there will be peace in the area and people can return to their homes,” Anutin stated, reflecting the urgency of the situation. The long-standing dispute over sections of the 817km land border has now expanded into a broad conflict stretching from the forested regions near Laos to various coastal provinces.

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On Saturday, a spokesperson for the White House confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump is closely watching the conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. President Trump expressed a strong hope that all countries involved will keep their promise to stop fighting.

Crucially, the White House issued a clear warning: President Trump stated he would “seek accountability”—meaning he will find out who is responsible—if the fighting does not stop and a lasting peace cannot be secured. This information was reported by Reuters news agency.

The Ceasefire Claim and Conflicting Responses

The situation became confusing after President Trump’s announcement on Friday:

• Trump’s Announcement: President Trump had earlier claimed he spoke with both Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, and that both leaders agreed to an immediate halt to the fighting.
• Malaysia’s Push: Adding to the diplomatic pressure, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also urged both nations on Saturday to accept a ceasefire starting that night at 10:00 PM.

However, the actions of the leaders revealed a split:

Despite President Trump’s announcement and Malaysia’s mediation efforts, the Thai Prime Minister’s decision to continue military action shows that the declared ceasefire has not been accepted or put into effect by both sides.

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WASHINGTON D.C. / PHNOM PENH – US President Donald Trump has announced that the prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to halt their deadly border fighting, effective tonight.

Trump made the announcement after speaking by phone with both Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, following recent clashes that have killed at least 20 people and displaced half a million civilians.

I. The Claimed Ceasefire and Conditions

Neither the Thai nor the Cambodian Prime Minister has publicly confirmed the immediate halt, but President Trump shared the agreement on his social media platform, Truth Social:

“Both leaders have agreed to CEASE all shooting effective this evening, and go back to the original Peace Accord made with me. Both Countries are ready for PEACE and continued Trade with the United States of America.”

However, earlier today, Thai PM Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters that a ceasefire would only happen if Cambodia met specific conditions: “Cambodia will cease fire, withdraw its troops, remove all landmines it has planted.” This suggests the situation remains tense despite the US announcement.

II. A Long and Deadly Dispute

The border dispute between the two Southeast Asian neighbours is more than a century old, dating back to when the borders were first drawn after the French occupation of Cambodia.

• Escalation: The recent violence escalated dramatically on July 24, when Cambodia launched rockets into Thailand, which responded with air strikes.
• Previous Truce: Days later, they agreed to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire,” which was brokered by President Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
• Renewed Violence: Tensions have since rebuilt, and the violence this week expanded, affecting at least six provinces in north-eastern Thailand and five provinces in Cambodia’s north and north-west.

The international community is now waiting for confirmation from the Thai and Cambodian governments regarding the immediate halt to the fighting.

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Trump Claims Role as Peacemaker

Speaking at a rally on Tuesday in Pennsylvania, President Trump highlighted his past role in settling various international disputes before turning his focus to Southeast Asia.

“I hate to say this one, named Cambodia-Thailand and it started up today and tomorrow I am going to have to make a phone call. Who else could say I’m going to make a phone call and stop a war of two very powerful countries, Thailand and Cambodia.”

Trump was a key figure in establishing the fragile truce that has existed since the heavy five-day battles in July, which resulted in at least 48 deaths.

READ MORE: Trump’s Presence at Cambodia–Thailand Peace Deal: What Cambodia Stands to Gain

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This information was conveyed by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet following a late-night telephone discussion with President Trump. The focus of their conversation was the recent developments along the shared border and the sustained efforts required to uphold the existing peace accord between the two adjacent nations.

Gratitude for U.S. Diplomacy

In a social media statement released this morning, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed profound gratitude: “Speaking on behalf of the people of Cambodia, I extended my heartfelt thanks to President Trump. His diplomatic efforts were instrumental in establishing a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand and resulted in the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration—a vital framework for achieving enduring peace.”

The Prime Minister also reiterated Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to upholding the spirit of this Declaration. He voiced optimism that both governments will persist in their collaborative work, adhering to the established bilateral structures and principles, which notably encompass the removal of landmines near the frontier.

Assurance of Stability

Prime Minister Hun Manet reported that President Trump clearly conveyed his desire for long-term stability between the two countries. Consequently, the U.S. President will maintain close supervision over the matter to ensure that armed hostilities do not resume along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

Samdech Thipadei concluded by confirming Cambodia’s steadfast position: “The settlement of all border disputes must proceed peacefully, in accordance with the previously agreed-upon mechanisms and principles. This pathway is essential for resolving the issue between Cambodia and Thailand and establishing lasting peace.”

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