By Vijian Paramasivam
PHNOM PENH, Dec 31 (Bernama) -- Eighteen Cambodian soldiers detained by the Thai military during the border conflict in July have returned safely to Cambodia on Wednesday morning after 155 days in captivity.
Thai authorities released the group at Prum International Border Crossing in Pailin province following a ceasefire agreement reached between Cambodia and Thailand at the 3rd Special Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee Meeting on December 27.
One of the key points agreed at the meeting was the release of the soldiers arrested in Preah Vihear Province on July 29, after the latest ceasefire remains intact for 72 hours.
“The Government utilised all available diplomatic channels and international humanitarian legal frameworks to ensure that our soldiers can be reunited with their beloved families, who have been waiting with such longing.
“Cambodia remains hopeful that this release will significantly contribute to building mutual trust and confidence,” Cambodian Defence Ministry Spokeswoman Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said in a press release on Wednesday.
The soldiers' repatriation was also in accordance with the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord signed on Oct 26, on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit.
-- BERNAMA
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