Thailand urges gradual reset of ties with Cambodia at China-hosted talks

Thailand has emphasised to China, during a tripartite meeting in Yunnan province, that any adjustment of mutual relations with Cambodia should be undertaken on a step-by-step basis.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow told his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, that Thailand has always chosen the path of peace and sees the need for a gradual building of mutual trust and confidence between the two governments and their peoples.

China hosted the meeting in Kunming on Tuesday, attended by Wang, Sihasak and Cambodia’s foreign minister Prak Sokhonn.

The meeting was held two days after the two neighbouring countries signed a peace agreement in Chanthaburi province, Thailand, pledging to end all military hostilities.

The ceasefire, which came into force at noon on Sunday, was signed on the condition of a 72-hour observation period.

Clashes that began in May pushed bilateral relations to their lowest point, with both sides downgrading diplomatic ties by recalling their ambassadors.

According to the Thai Foreign Ministry’s Facebook page, Thailand and Cambodia expressed appreciation to China for its continued role and understanding in helping ease tensions between the neighboring countries.

China, for its part, reiterated its respect for the principle of non-interference and expressed its readiness to serve as a vehicle for the support of lasting peace between Thailand and Cambodia.

Sihasak underscored that Thailand has consistently pursued peaceful approaches and dialogue in managing cross-border issues.

As part of immediate confidence-building measures, Thailand said it will consider the release of 18 soldiers following the completion of the 72-hour observed ceasefire period.

Thailand also requested that Cambodia facilitate the return of Thai nationals along the border.

Both countries agreed that further discussions will be needed on additional measures to stabilise the situation, including reductions in hostilities, demining efforts, the removal of heavy weapons and cooperation to suppress cross-border scam operations.

The ministers said these steps are aimed at improving safety and security for communities living along the Thai-Cambodian border.