Vietnam voices concern over Thailand-Cambodia border tensions
Vietnam has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions along the Thailand–Cambodia border, urging both sides to refrain from using force and to resolve their differences by peaceful means, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The foreign ministry’s spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made the statement at a press conference in Hanoi on Thursday in response to media inquiries about Vietnam’s reaction to the situation.
She called on both sides to exercise utmost restraint, refrain from using force, and settle their differences peacefully.
Thailand and Cambodia are not only neighbors to each other and to Vietnam but also fellow members of ASEAN, she noted.
The most importance is to achieve a peaceful resolution for disagreement based on international law, the United Nations (UN) Charter, the ASEAN Charter, the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, and in the spirit of ASEAN friendship and solidarity, for the long-term benefit of both nations and the region, Hang stated.
Tensions over the long-standing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia reignited in late May when a brief exchange of gunfire in a contested area resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier.
Despite declaring an intent to de‑escalate, both sides have since reinforced their military presence along the border.
Thailand tightened control over border crossings and reportedly threatened to cut electricity and Internet access in Cambodian border towns, while Phnom Penh banned the import of Thai agricultural products and films.
The latest clash erupted on Thursday, when Cambodia fired rockets and artillery into Thai territory, and Bangkok deployed F‑16 fighter jets to conduct airstrikes on its neighbor, prompting the mass evacuation of civilians from border areas on both sides.
Along with Vietnam, the U.S., Russia, China, Malaysia, and the UN have called on both countries to exercise restraint, protect civilians, and pursue dialogue to reach a peaceful settlement through diplomatic and legal means.
By Vinh Tho & Thanh Hien & Cong Khai – Tuoi Tre News – July 25, 2025