Cambodia and Laos Enhance Border Security Cooperation for Stability

The recent collaboration between Cambodia and Laos to enhance border security marks a significant step towards fostering regional stability and prosperity. This cooperation comes as both nations strive to address transnational challenges and boost social harmony. As Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sar Sokha met with Buakeo Phumvongsay, the Lao Ambassador to Cambodia, the agenda of strengthened border cooperation took center stage.

At the Ministry of Interior, Sokha expressed strong support for Laos as it gears up to lead ASEAN in 2024, praising the country for its successful hosting of the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime. Ambassador Buakeo, in turn, lauded the robust relationship between the two countries, asserting Laos’s dedication to sustaining regular meetings between their border authorities. This ongoing dialogue aims to maintain public order and enhance safety for citizens in border provinces.

Ren Ratana, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior, echoed this sentiment, stating that the ambassador conveyed confidence in Sokha’s commitment to advancing bilateral trade and anti-crime initiatives, including measures against human and drug trafficking. This dedication to safeguarding communities highlights the mutual benefits of a strong cross-border partnership.

Further illustrating the scope of this collaboration, Kin Phea, Director General of the Institute of International Relations at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, emphasized the increased efforts to tackle transnational crime, human trafficking, drug offenses, and corruption. Phea noted that transforming the border into a peaceful area symbolizes a growing partnership between Cambodia and Laos, built on mutual trust and cooperation.

In July, the collaboration was reinforced when General Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, met with Lieutenant General Khamlieng Outhakaysone, Deputy Minister of Defence and Chief of Staff of the Lao People’s Army. During this meeting, Pisen advocated for continued information exchange to battle transnational issues like terrorism, trafficking, and disaster management. He further proposed cultural exchanges, such as sports and entertainment activities, to foster camaraderie.

The discussions also addressed the need for the Joint Boundary Commission’s efforts to finalize border markers, underscoring the commitment to a harmonious and cooperative frontier. Lt. Gen. Outhakaysone supported Cambodia’s vision for the border, recognizing the positive outcomes of their ongoing collaboration, which has notably improved border security and public order.

This concerted effort towards fortifying border cooperation reflects a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous region, with both nations poised to strengthen their ties across various sectors, enhancing the quality of life for their citizens and positioning themselves as pivotal players in regional security and stability.