Following a four-day field visit to border conflict zones and refugee shelters, the Asian Vision Institute (AVI) has reiterated the importance of maintaining open channels of communication between state and non-state actors, as well as between national institutions and international partners, especially during times of crisis.
In an August 7 press release, AVI — a leading Cambodian think tank — noted that their mission also underscored the critical role of research institutions in documenting the impacts of conflict, identifying concrete needs and offering policy recommendations, based on evidence that is relevant to the Cambodian context.
In addition, the visit deepened its understanding of the situation on the ground.
From July 30 to August 2, 2025, AVI took part in a mission to monitor the implementation of the ceasefire agreement that officially came into effect at midnight on July 28. The delegation assessed the situation along the border, and observed the destruction caused by Thai military action, including heavy artillery and rocket fire, airstrikes using F-16 jets and cluster munitions, which left unexploded ordnance (UXO).
The visit was conducted alongside military attachés from 13 countries, representing global powers and ASEAN member states, along with diplomats, UN mission representatives, senior Cambodian officials, civil society organisations, and local and international journalists. Key locations included the An Ses area, Chom Te area, and temporary shelters housing tens of thousands of displaced people.
“During the mission, Cambodian armed forces demonstrated full transparency and reaffirmed that the An Ses area remains under Cambodia’s control. Officials from participating countries expressed admiration for Cambodia’s efforts to defend its territory and support peace efforts,” noted the AVI statement.
AVI also used the opportunity to explore deeper policy dialogues and regional cooperation in various areas, such as conflict response, mine action and community resilience.
AVI reiterated its strong commitment to national sovereignty, regional harmony and the well-being of all Cambodian people. This mission reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring that affected communities receive compassionate, cooperative, and practical solutions.
Finally, AVI called on ASEAN, the UN, the international community and humanitarian institutions to continue supporting Cambodia’s efforts to address the urgent humanitarian needs of displaced civilians, strengthen border stability and promote peace in the region.
