The Embassy of Japan in Cambodia has denied online rumours claiming that the Japanese government plans to provide combat drones to Thailand, calling the reports entirely false.
In a statement posted to its official Facebook page on the morning of August 6, the embassy stated that Japan has no intention of delivering such equipment to Thailand and has never received a request to do so from the Thai government.
The embassy emphasized that Japan’s assistance policies are governed by strict guidelines, especially in areas that could be linked to international conflicts. It said Tokyo views the implementation of the Cambodia -Thailand ceasefire agreement as critical to restoring peace in the border region.
“We strongly hope that the people of Cambodia will be able to return to peaceful daily life as soon as possible,” the embassy wrote.
On August 1, Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi visited a camp in Oddar Meanchey province housing Cambodians who had fled the conflict zone. He expressed deep regret over the extent of the destruction caused by fighting between the two militaries.
Clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops intensified beginning July 24, when Thai forces reportedly launched the first attacks along the disputed border. The fighting lasted five days before both sides agreed to a ceasefire on July 28.
Cambodia and Thailand are now engaged in continued negotiations through the General Border Committee meeting being held in Malaysia. Talks began on August 4 and are scheduled to conclude on August 6.
