Posted by KBF / 30-8-2025

Kristiansand  27.08.2025

To: Jonas Gahr Støre, Prime Minister of Norway
Postadresse: Postboks 8001 Dep., 0030 Oslo
Besøksadresse: Glacisgata 1, Oslo

Read full letter in Norwegian (download) and Khmer (download) – [unofficial translation].

On behalf of the Khmer Buddhist Society, we would like to inform you, the Prime Minister of Norway that we are very concerned with the war between Cambodia and Thailand border. It has not ended yet, even though both sides have signed the ceasefire agreement since July 28, 2025.

The Thai soldiers are still crossing (invading) along the border into Cambodia by setting up barbed wire, building new roads and using slingshots on Cambodian military bases and taking Cambodian villages at the border of Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey and Pursat provinces. In addition, the Thai soldiers have continuously detained the 18 Cambodian soldiers who are hostages since July 29, 2025. These activities are a violation of the ceasefire agreement and international laws.

The consequences of the war have displaced more than 134,000 Cambodian civilians with incalculable suffering because of destroying villages, schools, businesses and health centers. Around 600 schools have been closed in five provinces, and 15,000 students have approximately been suspended from their studies. All refugees, including women and children, need foods and daily necessities. In addition, about 1,000,000 Cambodian workers in Thailand have returned home.

Dear Prime Minister!

We would like to ask the Prime Minister and the Norwegian government to intervene in the diplomatic and international actions to stop the war, because we do not want to see more tragedy and suffering for the civilians of both countries.

As well, we would like to ask you to pressure Thailand to release the 18 soldiers and intervene for Cambodia justice. At the same time, we ask you to provide humanitarian aid to the Cambodian refugees.

Best wishes,

Nath Men,
Leader of the Khmer Buddhist Society Norway

Read full letter in Norwegian (download) and Khmer (download).

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