Thailand calls for Cambodian soldiers to retreat, striving for peace, says Phumtham
Breaking News
Tensions Ease Between Thailand and Cambodia as Troops Withdraw and Trenches Filled
In a significant move to quell escalating border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, Cambodia has agreed to withdraw its troops from the contentious Chong Bok border area and relocate them to the Tri Muk Pavilion, roughly 150-200 meters from the disputed zone [3].
Cambodian soldiers will vacate their positions encroaching around 200 meters into Thai territory, and the trenches which wereConstructed will also be filled [3].
Thailand and Cambodia have both reaffirmed their commitment to supporting peace and preserving sovereignty. Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged restraint and called for the de-escalation of the tensions [4].
Thailand prefers to address border disputes through bilateral discussions, given its non-recognition of rulings by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) [1]. Both nations have also agreed to utilize the local border committee mechanism to address the area's sustainability, with plans for regular weekly meetings to foster dialogue [3].
In a remarkable gesture toward diplomatic solutions, Thailand has expressed reluctance regarding Cambodia's intent to refer unresolved border disputes to the ICJ for resolution [1][2].
On June 14, a meeting between the Joint Border Committee is scheduled to further discuss these issues [1]. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains crucial to ensure restraint and promote dialogue between the two nations.
Key Developments
- Cambodia Agrees to Troop Withdrawal and Trench Filling: A significant step toward de-escalation [3].
- Increased Diplomatic Efforts: Both countries reaffirming their commitment to peace and sovereignty protection [4].
- Malaysia Calls for Restraint: Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim plays a crucial role in promoting de-escalation [4].
- Bilateral Dialogue Preferred: Thailand chooses bilateral negotiations as a preferred solution to border disputes [1].
- JBC Meeting Scheduled: Scheduled meetings between the Joint Border Committee ensure continued dialogue and discussion [1].
[1] Thai Students: https://www.thailandtoday.in.th/334258/thai-students-demand-withdrawal-of-cambodian-troops[2] Thai Government Urges Cambodia to Resolve Tensions Via Dialogue: https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2023/03/27/thai-govt-urges-cambodia-to-resolve-tensions-vias-dialogue.html[3] Thailand-Cambodia Reach Border Agreement: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailand-cambodia-reach-border-agreement-2023-06-10/[4] Malaysia Urges Thailand, Cambodia to Show Restraint, Exercise Diplomacy Over Border Dispute: https://www.straitstimes.com/world/asean/malaysia-urges-thailand-cambodia-to-show-restraint-exercise-diplomacy-over-border-dispute
- The international community applauds the political resolution between Thailand and Cambodia, as both countries have shown a willingness to engage in diplomatic discussions instead of relying on war-and-conflicts in resolving their border disputes.
- Apart from politics, the business community anticipates a positive impact on the economy as general-news of reduced tensions between Thailand and Cambodia ensures a stable and secure environment for trade and investment in the region.
- As political tensions ease between the two nations, international attention is now focusing on the potential for increased cooperation in various areas, such as addressing common challenges in war-and-conflicts, disaster relief, and economic development.
