Banteay meanchey: In a significant display of state support amid an ongoing border crisis, a senior advisor to Cambodia's monarch visited displaced citizens on Friday, vowing that national sovereignty is "non-negotiable" and that the Royal Government will ensure their safe and dignified return. Samdech Krolahom Sar Kheng, Member of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King, travelled to Banteay Meanchey province to meet with representatives from six villages in O'Chrov and Thmar Puok districts. The villagers have been forced to seek shelter in temporary safety zones following an escalation in border tensions.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the displacement follows a series of aggressive actions by Thai forces. Despite a ceasefire agreement reached on Dec. 27, 2025, Thai troops have reportedly used barbed wire and shipping containers to encircle the six Cambodian villages. The incursion has resulted in the complete destruction of over 2,000 homes and the displacement of more than 3,000 families, totaling over 11,000 individuals. Governor H.E. Oum Reatrey noted that large swathes of farmland and residential areas remain contaminated with unexploded ordnance (UXO), posing a major obstacle to any potential return.
"The sovereignty of the nation cannot be violated," Samdech Krolahom Sar Kheng stated firmly during the meeting at the provincial hall, which was also attended by fellow Member of the Supreme Privy Council Ke Kim Yan and provincial leaders. "The Royal Government never abandons its citizens, no matter the circumstances."
The senior official emphasised the Royal Government's commitment to resolving the dispute through legal and peaceful means, underpinned by a spirit of national unity. He stressed that the ultimate goal is to facilitate the residents' return to their homeland in safety and with dignity.
For the displaced villagers, the visit provided a rare moment of solace. A representative from the affected area expressed profound gratitude, stating that the presence of senior leaders served as a "healing balm" for their wounded spirits. "We believe in the Royal Government to resolve the border issue so we can return to farm our ancestral land," the representative said.
The event was not solely a humanitarian mission but also a firm political and diplomatic message underscoring Cambodia's resolve to protect its territorial integrity. As the six villages remain under pressure, the resilience and hope shown by the displaced citizens serve as a powerful testament to the bond between the state and its people in a time of crisis.
A total of 2,983 families received emergency relief supplies distributed by the officials. Supplies were also delivered to 18 front-line military units and six units stationed at the safety zones to support ongoing operations.