http://en.freshnewsasia.com/, https://freshnews.com.kh/

Fresh News English, #9d, Street 598. Sangkat Chrang Chomres 2, Phnom Penh (2026)

10/06/2026

Fresh Exclusive In-Depth Commentary: “We Will Not Abandon Our Land, and We Will Not Choose War”: Samdech Hun Sen Urges Thai Media to Correct False Reporting

(Phnom Penh): At a time when Cambodia–Thailand tensions remain fragile and increasingly vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Acting Head of State of the Kingdom of Cambodia, has publicly demanded that Thai media outlets correct what he described as inaccurate reporting claiming that Cambodia had chosen both military and peaceful means to reclaim territory currently under Thai control.

Samdech Hun Sen firmly clarified that Cambodia “will neither abandon its territory nor choose war.”

“What intention do you have in saying that Hun Sen combines both military and peaceful measures? I never chose a military option,” He said.

His clarification comes amid growing concerns in both Cambodia and Thailand that a third round of armed conflict could erupt, as the first anniversary of the July 24, 2025 clashes — regarded as the most serious confrontation between the two countries in decades — approaches in the coming weeks.

Peaceful Resolution Is Cambodia’s Chosen Path

During remarks delivered on June 9, 2026, Techo Hun Sen explained to Cambodian displaced families that Cambodia essentially faced two options: the use of military force or peaceful negotiation.

However, he stressed that Cambodia had chosen the path of peaceful resolution and international law.

On June 10, Samdech Hun Sen further reinforced this position, stating:

“Military means can prolong suffering across generations. Only peaceful means can produce a sustainable solution and become a ‘solid blueprint’ for future generations.”

This statement represents the core message of Techo Hun Sen’s speech: Cambodia is choosing peaceful resolution, not armed confrontation.

At the same time, Samdech Hun Sen explained in detail why Cambodia does not choose military force to reclaim disputed territory. At least three major reasons were highlighted to demonstrate why war is not the path Cambodia intends to pursue.

First Reason: Political and Diplomatic Consequences

Techo Hun Sen warned that if Cambodia were the first side to open fire, Cambodia would immediately be accused of initiating war and violating the ceasefire agreement.

According to Samdech Hun Sen, firing the “first shot” could seriously damage Cambodia’s international credibility and undermine years of diplomatic and legal efforts undertaken through international mechanisms.

In other words, Techo Hun Sen emphasized that military victory on the battlefield does not necessarily translate into political or diplomatic victory.

Second Reason: Humanitarian Costs

Samdech Hun Sen also stressed the devastating human cost of war.

War is not simply about reclaiming territory, he argued. It brings deaths, displaced civilians, burned villages, children losing access to education, and severe economic destruction.

These concerns carry even greater weight as the anniversary of the July 24, 2025 conflict draws near — a conflict that caused deaths, injuries, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians along the border.

Third Reason: Military Reality

Samdech Hun Sen openly acknowledged another difficult reality: war rarely produces a quick or lasting victory.

He explained that even if territory could be retaken militarily, there would be no guarantee that it could be permanently secured, as conflict could continue indefinitely through cycles of retaliation.

Through this argument, Tech0 Hun Sen sought to send a broader message to the public: war is not a sustainable solution, whereas negotiation and international law offer the possibility of building a durable “solid blueprint” for long-term peace.

National Road 58 and a Question Directed at Thailand

Samdech Hun Sen also revisited remarks made by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who previously claimed that Thailand had not violated Cambodian territory.

In response, Techo Hun Sen raised questions regarding National Road 58, a road running along the Cambodian border that was constructed with Chinese assistance. He noted that Thai authorities are now placing containers and barriers in the area.

Techo Hun Sen questioned why Thailand had never protested during the years when China was building the road for Cambodia shortly after Cambodia emerged from decades of war.

“Now I want to ask Thailand: this National Road 58 was built by China. Why is Thailand now placing containers there? Was China blind when it built a road for Cambodia on what Thailand now claims is Thai territory?” He asked.

The question carried significant political and diplomatic implications, as Techo Hun Sen was using what he described as “facts on the ground” to challenge claims that the area belongs to Thailand.

At the same time, Samdech Hun Sen urged Thailand to continue implementing the ceasefire agreement and resume border demarcation work through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), a mechanism both countries had previously agreed to under formal bilateral agreements.

Conclusion

Techo Hun Sen’s speech on June 10, 2026 was not merely an attempt to correct what he viewed as false reporting by sections of the Thai media. It was also a clear political message directed at Cambodian citizens, Thailand, and the international community.

The message was straightforward: Cambodia will not abandon its territory, but Cambodia will also not choose war as the means to resolve disputes.

As the first anniversary of the July 24, 2025 conflict approaches, Techo Hun Sen’s remarks also appear aimed at preventing nationalism, misinformation, and misunderstanding from reigniting another painful chapter in Cambodia–Thailand relations.

10/06/2026

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet received a courtesy call from Seema Malhotra, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific at the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), on Tuesday afternoon (Jun. 9), in Viet Nam.

During the meeting, Malhotra expressed her satisfaction and appreciation for the progress made in Cambodia-UK relations and cooperation. She also commended the close partnership between the relevant ministries and institutions of both countries, particularly in public financial management, as well as efforts to attract greater British investment to Cambodia.

Malhotra further highlighted the importance of diversifying UK’s partnerships by strengthening engagement with ASEAN member states in order to expand connectivity and share the UK's best practices and innovations with countries across the region.

In response, Prime Minister Hun Manet praised the UK's valuable contributions to Cambodia's socio-economic development, particularly through support for humanitarian mine clearance and efforts to expand bilateral trade.

The prime minister noted that diversification is an effective way to broaden markets and trade partnerships. He agreed with Malhotra's emphasis on strengthening ties between the UK and ASEAN countries, including Cambodia, particularly in economic and trade cooperation.

Both sides also exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in education, a sector of significant importance and growing interest among Cambodian students, offering substantial benefits to both countries. The prime minister encouraged the UK to continue supporting and expanding educational cooperation to make it more comprehensive and impactful.

In addition, both sides discussed strengthening defence and security cooperation, particularly in combating transnational crime. Both parties underscored the importance of close collaboration in addressing cross-border criminal activities. They highlighted Cambodia's firm measures against online scams.

Prime Minister Hun Manet underscored the Royal Government's strong commitment and cooperation with partner countries to combat online fraud and cyber-enabled scams. He stressed that the Royal Government will continue implementing these measures consistently until Cambodia eradicates such criminal networks.

On the occasion, Malhotra highly appreciated Cambodia's decisive actions in tackling online scam operations.

In conclusion, both parties also exchanged views on regional and international issues of shared concern. Both sides underlined the importance of strengthening cooperation among all countries to help safeguard global peace and prosperity.

10/06/2026

The UK Prime Minister's Trade Envoy to Cambodia, Viet Nam, Thailand and Laos, Matt Western MP, is visiting Cambodia to build on previous engagements and further strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, reaffirming the United Kingdom's long-standing commitment to Cambodia's sustainable economic growth.

Speaking ahead of the visit the UK Prime Minister's Trade Envoy, Matt Western MP said, "It is a pleasure to return to Cambodia at such an important moment in the country's development. As Cambodia prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status, there is a real opportunity to deepen trade and investment links, strengthen skills and education partnerships, and support the growth of Cambodian businesses.

The United Kingdom is proud to work with Cambodia in areas where our strengths and ambitions align, including green infrastructure, financial services and capital markets, and education. These sectors have the potential to support sustainable growth, create jobs, attract investment and unlock long-term prosperity.

Cambodia's open and outward-looking approach to trade and investment creates significant opportunities for deeper economic cooperation. British businesses are already making a positive contribution across the country, and there is considerable potential to strengthen commercial links further as Cambodia continues its economic transformation.

During my visit, I look forward to meeting Cambodian leaders, regulators, businesses and educators to explore how we can deepen our partnership, unlock new opportunities for trade and investment, and support the next chapter of Cambodia's growth story.

By working together, we can build a future-focused partnership that delivers lasting benefits for people and businesses in both our countries."

During his visit, Western will meet with senior Cambodian leaders, including Sok Siphana, counterparts from the Ministry of Commerce and the Council for the Development of Cambodia.

Discussions will focus on Cambodia's key trade and investment priorities, delivery following the Joint Trade and Investment Forum (JTIF), regulatory reform, and increasing utilisation of the UK's Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

The meetings will also highlight the role of UK expertise and programmes, including the ASEAN-UK Economic Integration Programme (EIP), in supporting Cambodia's long-term growth.

Western will also meet representatives from Electricité du Cambodge (EDC) to discuss Cambodia's energy ambitions, financing partnerships, and the current and potential future role of the UK in supporting Cambodia's energy development and transition.

In addition, he will engage with members of UK-Cambodia Capital Markets Development Working Group, delivered in partnership with BritCham Cambodia, to review progress to date, discuss next steps, and explore opportunities to position UK professional and financial services expertise in support of Cambodia's capital market development.

As part of the programme, Western will visit British businesses operating in Cambodia, including Reigate Grammar School Phnom Penh and Unilever, to highlight their contributions to job creation, skills development, and inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

He will also attend a networking reception with UK institutions, businesses, the British Chamber of Commerce, and Cambodian counterparts, aimed at strengthening collaboration and deepening partnerships on trade and development.

The UK remains committed to working closely with Cambodian partners to foster mutual prosperity and unlock new trade and investment opportunities that benefit both nations.

10/06/2026

Russian airlines are ready to fully resume flights to Middle Eastern countries. However, in this matter they are guided, among other things, by recommendations from the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Economic Development, Russian Transport Minister Andrey Nikitin said in an interview with TASS on the sidelines of SPIEF-2026.

"Airlines are ready for the full-scale resumption of flights to the Middle East. Beginning June 1, Aeroflot resumed flights to Dubai, and from July 1 we are considering operating two flights a day there. Our frequency has increased. But official recommendations from the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Economic Development regarding travel to the Middle East are still in effect, so airlines are taking this factor into account as well," he said.

Nikitin added that the route network is reopening gradually and cautiously in order not to create risks to passenger safety. Discussions on resuming flights to the Middle East are underway, but the final decision rests with the airlines themselves. "In principle, we are ready to move forward here, but we leave this decision to the companies," he specified.

The airspace of a number of Middle Eastern countries was closed at the end of February amid an escalation of the conflict in the region. From April 16 to May 15, Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency allowed flights to Israel from 07:00 a.m. to 01:00 a.m. Moscow time. On April 17, Red Wings resumed flights to Tel Aviv.

Source: TASS

10/06/2026

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet received a courtesy call from Christopher Landau, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States of America, on Tuesday afternoon (Jun. 9).

During the meeting, US deputy secretary of state expressed satisfaction with the progress of relations between the United States and Cambodia, emphasising that both countries have significant opportunities to strengthen and deepen bilateral cooperation. He also highly commended the conclusion of the landmark Open Skies Agreement between the United States and Cambodia, noting that it would further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation.

Landau further expressed appreciation for the Cambodian government's support for American companies' investment and business expansion in Cambodia, which has contributed significantly to the country's socio-economic development. He added that Cambodia possesses strong tourism potential due to its rich cultural heritage and globally renowned attractions.

In response, Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed the positive momentum and achievements in Cambodia-US relations and cooperation, reaffirming Cambodia's commitment to further strengthening ties and expanding cooperation between the two nations.

The prime minister also highlighted the Cambodian government's policies and measures to support and ensure the success of the private sector, including foreign companies operating in Cambodia. He noted ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and logistics connectivity through the expansion of the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port and the construction of the Funan Techo Canal, a comprehensive water-resource management project designed to enhance Cambodia's transportation efficiency, boost competitiveness, create jobs, and promote sustainable socio-economic development.

On the occasion, both sides also exchanged views on combating transnational crime, particularly online scams and cyber fraud. Prime Minister Hun Manet outlined the government's firm measures and cooperation with partner countries, including the US, to combat online scams. He stressed that the government will continue these efforts until it fully eradicates criminal networks in Cambodia.

In response, Landau highly commended Cambodia's strong and decisive actions against such crimes.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Hun Manet briefed the US deputy secretary of state on the latest developments regarding the Cambodia-Thailand border situation, reaffirming Cambodia's commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, in accordance with international law and existing conventions, treaties, and agreements between Cambodia and Thailand.

10/06/2026

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet allowed Bui Quang Huy, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, to pay a courtesy call and hold a working discussion on Tuesday (Jun. 9) during his official visit to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.

During the meeting, Bui Quang Huy informed Samdech Thipadei about the fruitful outcomes of the recent discussions between the Central Committee of the Youth Wing of the Cambodian People’s Party and the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union.

The youth groups of both countries agreed to jointly organise grand events and activities, especially in border provinces, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027.

In response, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet highly valued the meaningful discussions and the continued mutual understanding between the youth of the Cambodian People’s Party and the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union. He emphasised that youth relations between the two countries are an important foundation for Cambodia-Viet Nam relations.

Samdech Thipadei encouraged Cambodian and Vietnamese youth, as well as youth from Laos, to establish regular exchange mechanisms, particularly annual meetings, to maintain solidarity and friendship and to continue nurturing the tradition of strong ties inherited from previous generations of leaders of both countries.

Samdech Thipadei expressed full support for the initiative of youth from both countries to organise programs and activities grandly to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Viet Nam next year. He further noted that at the governmental level, both countries have also agreed to jointly organise diverse, grand, and deeply meaningful activities and events to mark this historic milestone.

In conclusion, both sides also reaffirmed that enhancing mutual understanding and active, regular exchanges at all levels is a key factor in preserving the tradition of good relations between the two countries, further deepening and elevating them to a new level.

10/06/2026

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet received Izumi Nakamitsu, United Nations Under Secretary General, on Tuesday afternoon (Jun. 9), for a courtesy call and working discussion during his official visit to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam on 8-9 June 2026.

During the meeting, Nakamitsu praised Cambodia’s expertise in mine clearance and the disposal of unexploded ordnance (UXO) left behind by past conflicts. She noted that mine action and UXO clearance require substantial time and resources.

The UN under secretary general also commended the capabilities and experience of Cambodian forces that have actively contributed to the UN peacekeeping operations in numerous countries, demonstrating Cambodia’s commitment to promoting peace and sharing its valuable experience with the international community.

She further recalled her memories and mission in Cambodia before 1991, when she helped facilitate the repatriation of Cambodian refugees back to their homeland.

In response, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed gratitude and highly valued the UN’s significant contributions to Cambodia’s peace process and socio-economic development.

The prime minister also briefed Nakamitsu on Cambodia’s achievements in mine and UXO clearance, as well as the country’s successful hosting of the Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World under the Ottawa Convention, held in Siem Reap Province in late November 2024.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Hun Manet reflected on the consequences of the wars Cambodia had endured and stressed that war cannot solve problems. Ultimately, only dialogue and the preservation of peace can serve as the most important foundations for resolving disputes.

Both sides also exchanged views on various regional and international issues, emphasising the need to resolve disputes peacefully in line with international law and the United Nations Charter.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Hun Manet briefed Nakamitsu on the latest developments regarding the Cambodia-Thailand border situation and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to resolving the border issue peacefully, in accordance with international law and existing conventions, treaties, and agreements between Cambodia and Thailand.

10/06/2026

Editorial: Climate Change and Agricultural Fertilizers: Feeding the World Without Warming the Planet

(Phnom Penh): Agriculture is one of humanity’s greatest achievements. It feeds billions of people, supports livelihoods, and forms the backbone of many national economies. Fertilizers, in particular, have helped farmers increase crop yields and improve food security for generations.

Without fertilizers, it would be difficult to produce enough food to meet the needs of a growing global population.

Yet, like many powerful tools, fertilizers come with responsibilities. When used improperly or excessively, agricultural fertilizers can contribute to climate change, pollute water sources, and degrade ecosystems.

Understanding this connection is essential if we are to build a future that is both food-secure and environmentally sustainable.

Most chemical fertilizers contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, the nutrients plants need to grow. Nitrogen fertilizers are especially important because they help crops develop quickly and produce higher yields.

However, not all of the nitrogen applied to fields is absorbed by plants.

A significant portion escapes into the environment. Some is washed into rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Some evaporates into the atmosphere.

More importantly for climate change, part of the nitrogen in soil is converted into nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas nearly 300 times more powerful than carbon dioxide at trapping heat over the long term.

Globally, agriculture is one of the largest sources of nitrous oxide emissions. As the world increases food production, fertilizer use has also increased, leading to higher greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural lands.

Climate change and fertilizers are therefore linked in two ways.

First, excessive fertilizer use contributes to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions.

Second, climate change makes fertilizer management more difficult. Higher temperatures, more intense rainfall, floods, and droughts can increase nutrient losses from soils. During heavy rains, fertilizers can be washed away before crops absorb them. During droughts, crops may not utilize nutrients efficiently.

As a result, farmers may be tempted to apply more fertilizer, creating a cycle of rising costs and rising emissions.

The challenge is not to stop using fertilizers. The challenge is to use them wisely.

Across the world, scientists and farmers are promoting what is often called “smart fertilizer management.” This includes applying the right type of fertilizer, at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place.

Precision agriculture, soil testing, improved irrigation, and modern farming techniques can help farmers maximize yields while minimizing waste.

Organic fertilizers, compost, animal manure, crop residues, and biofertilizers can also play important roles in improving soil health and reducing dependence on synthetic inputs.

Healthy soils rich in organic matter not only support crop growth but also store carbon, helping to mitigate climate change.

In addition, protecting forests and natural ecosystems remains essential. Forests act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

When agricultural expansion leads to deforestation, the climate benefits of food production can be undermined by increased emissions from land-use change.

For countries such as Cambodia, where agriculture remains a vital sector of the economy, balancing food production and environmental protection is increasingly important. Farmers are already experiencing the effects of climate change through changing rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, floods, and rising temperatures.

Sustainable fertilizer management can help improve agricultural productivity while strengthening resilience to these challenges.

Governments, agricultural institutions, researchers, and farmers must work together to promote climate-smart agriculture. Training, access to technology, soil testing services, and public awareness are all critical components of this effort.

The future of agriculture should not be a choice between feeding people and protecting the planet. We must achieve both.

Fertilizers have helped humanity overcome hunger and improve living standards. Used responsibly, they will continue to play an important role in food production.

But as the world confronts the realities of climate change, we must recognize that every input to agriculture carries environmental consequences.

The goal is not simply to grow more food. The goal is to grow food more efficiently, more sustainably, and with greater respect for the natural systems upon which all life depends.

By using fertilizers wisely, protecting our soils, conserving our forests, and embracing climate-smart farming practices, we can nourish both people and the planet for generations to come.
=FRESH NEWS

10/06/2026

Fruitful Outcomes of PM Hun Manet’s Official Visit to Viet Nam from 8-9 June 2026

(Phnom Penh): The following are fruitful outcomes of the official visit of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam from 8 to 9 June 2026.
=FRESH NEWS

10/06/2026

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet paid a courtesy call and held working discussions with To Lam, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam, on Tuesday afternoon (Jun. 9).

The meeting took place during Prime Minister Hun Manet’s official visit to Viet Nam and his participation in the 3rd ASEAN Future Forum.

During the meeting, the Vietnamese president praised and highly valued Cambodia’s rapid socio-economic development progress.

He also recalled the fruitful outcomes of his state visit to Cambodia and his participation in the political parties’ summit held in Cambodia in early February 2026.

President To Lam reaffirmed his support for further strengthening and expanding Cambodia-Viet Nam relations, as well as enhancing Cambodia-Viet Nam-Laos cooperation. He also emphasised the importance of continuing joint efforts within regional and international frameworks to maintain peace and security.

In response, Prime Minister Hun Manet congratulated Viet Nam on successfully hosting the 3rd ASEAN Future Forum, a significant event amid rapid global changes.

The prime minister also expressed his satisfaction and appreciation for the steady progress of the traditional Cambodia-Viet Nam relationship despite the fast-changing global environment and prevailing uncertainties.

On the occasion, he reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to further promoting cooperation within both the Cambodia-Viet Nam framework and the Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam framework for the benefit of the peoples of all three countries.

In conclusion, both sides also exchanged views on ways to strengthen and expand cooperation in key sectors, including the economy, trade, security, national defence, and people-to-people connectivity, particularly among young people.

Fresh News English

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

10/06/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category