AKP Phnom Penh, March 10, 2026 --

H.E. Chea Somethy, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, met 1,284 displaced households currently staying at a temporary safety site at Chan Sy pagoda in Kob commune, O’Chrov district, alongside Banteay Meanchey Provincial Governor H.E. Oum Reatrey.

“The Royal Government of Cambodia, under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, stands with you at all times,” H.E. Chea Somethy told residents during the gathering on Mar. 10. “We will not abandon you or leave you alone in these safety centres. Ensuring your security and daily sustenance remains our top priority.”

The minister said the Royal Government is pursuing diplomatic and technical efforts to address border-related issues, including areas affected by barbed-wire fencing and shipping containers allegedly installed by the Thai side, while also working to clear unexploded ordnance so residents can safely return to their villages in the near future.

Governor Oum Reatrey briefed the gathering on the current conditions of the displaced families, noting that provincial authorities are coordinating closely with security forces to maintain safety and provide daily assistance.

He said the temporary relocation to safety centres was necessary to protect residents from potential dangers posed by unexploded mines and any possible cross-border incidents.

Some displaced residents expressed hope that the situation would soon improve. One representative said many families were eager to return home but could not do so because farmland in the area had been fenced off and remains contaminated with landmines.

“Seeing the minister and provincial leaders come here personally with food supplies, essential items and financial support gives us great comfort,” the resident said. “We trust the Royal Government will help us return to our normal lives.”

Relief items distributed to the families included rice, instant noodles, fish sauce, soy sauce, canned fish, cash assistance and other daily necessities.

By K. Rithy Reak