Phnom penh: Cambodia is preparing to welcome tomorrow the 18 soldiers currently held by the Thai army, announced Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Speaking in a special interview with Cambodian National Television (TVK) on December 29 in China's Yunnan province, following a trilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Prak Sokhonn said that, barring unforeseen circumstances, the troops should return to Cambodia by noon on December 30, 2025.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Prak Sokhonn stated, "We have taken all necessary measures and hope that no problems will arise. Tomorrow, December 30, 2025 at noon, we hope to welcome our 18 soldiers so that they can return home safely and reunite with their families." He emphasized that this outcome was the result of the meeting that took place over the last two days.
Prak Sokhonn further indicated that Thailand had already informed the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which would provide assistance in coordinating the release and repatriation. It has been 153 days since the 18 Cambodian soldiers were illegally detained by the Thai army.