Thailand, Cambodia reaffirm commitment to peace and stronger ties

Kuala Lumpur - Thailand and Cambodia reaffirmed their commitment to peace and agreed to advance bilateral relations during their first talks on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit this morning.

Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed gratitude to his Cambodian counterpart, Hun Manet, for a letter of condolence on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother. Anutin was elected prime minister at the end of last month.

Siripong added that Anutin reaffirmed that the Joint Declaration serves as the foundation for both countries to move forward.

“However, the most crucial element is the sincere and serious implementation of the commitments made,” he emphasized.

During the talks, both leaders discussed the need to work closely together to translate the agreement into concrete actions as soon as possible.

The Thai prime minister reiterated the importance of the four key measures agreed upon to de-escalate border tensions — the removal of heavy weapons from current positions, mine clearance operations, crackdowns on online scam syndicates, and border area management.

Siripong noted that the withdrawal of heavy weapons has already begun and that Thailand hopes to see continued and serious efforts to ensure the safety of people living along the border.

He also called for stronger coordination in implementing the remaining commitments.

Both prime ministers discussed ways to enhance diplomatic communication and agreed to instruct their foreign ministers to meet and consult as soon as possible.

They further agreed that the initial days following the signing of the declaration are crucial for both countries, as their governments, citizens, and media will be closely monitoring the progress of implementation.

Therefore, it is their responsibility to demonstrate genuine and good-faith actions in fulfilling the commitments, building stability, and ensuring the safety of their people.