Are Ceasefire Talks Between Thailand and Cambodia Underway?
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Synopsis
Ceasefire discussions between Thailand and Cambodia have commenced, with the potential for a ceasefire declaration soon. This development follows escalating tensions marked by military confrontations and significant bombardments. Will peace be achievable through these negotiations?
Key Takeaways
- Ceasefire talks initiated between Thailand and Cambodia.
- Potential signing of a ceasefire declaration expected soon.
- Recent violence highlighted by bombings in Banteay Meanchey.
- U.S. Secretary of State emphasizes importance of negotiations.
- Overall clashes show a downward trend.
Chanthaburi, Dec 27 (NationPress) - Ceasefire negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia commenced at approximately 9:40 a.m. local time on Saturday at a border checkpoint situated in Chanthaburi Province of Thailand.
If an agreement is finalized, both parties are anticipated to endorse a ceasefire declaration around noon, as reported by media outlets including Xinhua news agency.
On Friday, Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, Undersecretary of State and spokesperson for the Cambodian Defence Ministry, stated that Thai F-16 fighter jets had dropped nearly 40 bombs on a border village located in Banteay Meanchey province.
During a press briefing, she highlighted that the bombardment resulted in the destruction of both civilian homes and public infrastructure in Chok Chey village.
Additionally, the Thai military reportedly fired artillery shells into a civilian residential area within Poipet Municipality, also in Banteay Meanchey province, she noted.
Previously, on December 25, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for the comprehensive execution of the Peace Accords amidst the escalating violence between Cambodia and Thailand.
In a phone conversation with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Secretary Rubio reiterated that the United States is prepared to facilitate discussions aimed at fostering peace and stability between Cambodia and Thailand, according to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
Rubio emphasized the necessity for both nations to fully adhere to the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords.
The recent skirmishes along the Thailand-Cambodia border, which arise from long-standing territorial disputes dating back to the colonial period, flared up again in late May following military confrontations in border areas.
On Thursday, Thailand's military revealed that border negotiations with Cambodia were on their second day, with overall clashes along the border exhibiting a downward trend.
Around 30 Cambodian delegates participated in the discussions, and members of the ASEAN observer team from Malaysia were also present.
During a press briefing on Thursday, a Thai military spokesperson conveyed that the intensity of border skirmishes between the two nations has generally diminished, with exchanges of fire largely confined to localized regions.
Point of View
The ongoing ceasefire talks represent a vital opportunity for both Thailand and Cambodia to address their longstanding territorial disputes. The commitment to dialogue is essential for regional stability, and it is imperative that both nations prioritize peaceful resolutions to avoid further escalation.
NationPress
27/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the ceasefire talks between Thailand and Cambodia?
The ceasefire talks were triggered by recent military confrontations and escalating violence along the border, including bombings and artillery fire that affected civilian areas.
What is the significance of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords?
The Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords are crucial agreements aimed at resolving territorial disputes and promoting stability between Thailand and Cambodia, emphasizing the need for both nations to adhere to these commitments.
Who are the key figures involved in the ceasefire negotiations?
Key figures include Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who have all emphasized the importance of peace talks.
What has been the international response to the violence?
The international response, particularly from the U.S., has been to urge both nations to implement peace accords and engage in discussions to ensure regional stability.
How many delegates attended the ceasefire talks?
Approximately 30 Cambodian delegates participated in the ceasefire talks, along with members of the ASEAN observer team from Malaysia.
