Thai, Cambodian Foreign Ministers Hold Talks In Malaysia To Ease Border Tensions

BANGKOK, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow met with his Cambodian counterpart in Malaysia on Sunday to discuss the ongoing border tensions between both countries.

The Thai Foreign Ministry (MFA) said Sihasak took part in the four-party consultations involving Malaysia, the United States (US), and Cambodia chaired by Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

The MFA said Sihasak was on a working visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his capacity as ASEAN Chair.

“The consultations included discussions on outstanding matters, the way forward to de-escalate tensions, and ensuring tangible progress in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement,” the MFA stated on its official social media account on X.

The ministry said Sihasak stressed the importance of bilateral mechanisms, which have made notable progress in recent months, and the need to advance issues agreed upon by both sides.

“The foreign minister also highlighted key areas such as the withdrawal of heavy weaponry, joint demining efforts, combating transnational crime, and cooperation in the management of border areas,” it said.

Thailand and Cambodia are working towards lasting peace along their 817-kilometre border, which has long been a source of disputes. Tensions most recently escalated into a military confrontation in the Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear border areas on July 24.

Both governments subsequently agreed to defuse the situation, which has been closely monitored by Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair, as well as the US and China.

-- BERNAMA