ASEAN Observer Team Inspects Thai-Cambodian Border
An ASEAN observer team inspected the Thai-Cambodian border in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces in early July, examining disputed boundary areas, checkpoints, and security operations along the 171-kilometer frontier.
Between July 1-2, 2025, the ASEAN Observer Team–Thailand (AOT-TH) conducted an on-site inspection along the Thai-Cambodian border in areas administered by the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Commands. The delegation, comprising representatives from Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia, was led by Maj. Gen. Chitpol Kokitsammakoln and headed by Brigadier General Gregorio Nieveras of the Philippines.
The team received briefings on the disputed "K-shaped" area between boundary markers 64-65 near Khlong Takian in Chanthaburi's Pong Nam Ron District. They visited two permanent border checkpoints—Ban Phak Kad and Ban Laem—and observed how Thai units coordinate with security and civilian agencies to manage border crossings while maintaining national security and facilitating humanitarian assistance.
In Trat's jurisdiction, the team inspected a sediment detention dam, a construction site for Cambodia's proposed Koh Kong Casino development that would serve as a port and commercial hub. They also visited the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles in Trat, dedicated to the late Queen Sirikit, and learned about Thai humanitarian efforts assisting Cambodian refugees.
The delegation further visited units responsible for the 171-kilometer border stretch, receiving updates on security operations and humanitarian mine clearance work protecting civilians. The inspection provided AOT-TH with detailed information about the border situation, including alleged Cambodian non-compliance with the Joint Statement signed December 27, 2024. Brigadier General Nieveras will compile the findings and submit a report to AOT-HQ for further action.
