AOT serves as ‘Eyes of Truth’ to safeguard Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire, says Information Minister
AOT serves as ‘Eyes of Truth’ to safeguard Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire, says Information Minister
Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra has described the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) as the “eyes of truth” in safeguarding the ceasefire and peace between Cambodia and Thailand, stressing the importance of independent monitoring and verification on the ground.
Writing on his official Facebook page, Pheaktra said a ceasefire cannot protect itself and that without effective monitoring and verification, it risks remaining only a commitment on paper.
He said the AOT plays an essential role in maintaining peace along the Cambodia-Thailand border by observing, verifying and reporting facts directly from the ground.
“In a sensitive border environment, even a minor incident can lead to accusations; accusations can fuel tensions; and tensions can escalate into renewed armed confrontation,” he said.
According to Pheaktra, the AOT can help break this chain by providing impartial information and distinguishing facts from competing claims. Its presence can also reduce misunderstandings, prevent miscalculations and strengthen accountability in implementing the ceasefire.
“More importantly, the AOT does not simply document events after they occur. Its presence is itself a preventive mechanism,” he said, adding that on-the-ground observation encourages all parties to exercise greater restraint, vigilance and responsibility.
Pheaktra reaffirmed Cambodia’s full support for the AOT and called for its role to be strengthened, including by ensuring timely and effective access to relevant locations.
“Verification without access to the ground is incomplete verification; a ceasefire without effective verification remains a vulnerable ceasefire,” he said.
He stressed that the AOT should not be viewed as taking sides, but should instead stand with facts, the ceasefire and peace.
“The AOT is not there to wait and see whether the ceasefire will fail. Its role is to help prevent it from failing,” Pheaktra said.
He concluded that a credible ceasefire must be verifiable and that independently verified facts on the ground can play a crucial role in safeguarding lasting peace along the border.
-Khmer Times-
