ASEAN Chair’s Statement After Special Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the Cambodia-Thailand Situation

December 22, 2025 | Kuala Lumpur –
ASEAN’s rotating chair Malaysia today issued a clear statement following the Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting convened to address the current situation between Cambodia and Thailand. The meeting, held in Kuala Lumpur and chaired by Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, brought together ASEAN foreign ministers to review the latest developments along the Cambodia-Thailand border and to explore avenues for de-escalation and peace.

In the chair’s statement, ASEAN reiterated its deep concern over renewed hostilities along the shared border and underscored the organisation’s commitment to upholding peace, stability and ASEAN centrality in regional security. Ministers emphasised the principles of dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence anchored in international law, the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia, as chair, reaffirmed its role in facilitating constructive engagement between both parties. The statement highlighted ASEAN’s readiness to support bilateral and multilateral mechanisms that advance a durable cessation of hostilities and encourage direct communication between Cambodian and Thai officials.

The meeting comes amid ongoing clashes that have caused significant civilian displacement and casualties, underlining the urgent need for a comprehensive ceasefire and humanitarian safeguards. ASEAN’s collective message focused on encouraging both capitals to return to meaningful dialogue without delay, and to consider confidence-building measures that can reduce tensions along contested border areas.

ASEAN foreign ministers also discussed possible support for implementation and monitoring efforts that could reinforce compliance with any agreed ceasefire arrangements, including coordination with ASEAN observer teams and relevant international partners where appropriate.