Bangkok: A ceasefire agreement has been signed between Thailand and Cambodia, effective immediately on December 27th, as preparations begin for the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers. Thailand's Minister of Defence confirmed the signing of the Generally Boundaries and Border Control (GBC) agreement, marking a formal ceasefire at 12:00 PM. Thai troops will remain in the area for a 72-hour monitoring period. An ASEAN mechanism and a leaders' hotline will be established to monitor the border situation.
According to Thai News Agency, General Natthaphol Nakpanich, Minister of Defence, emphasized that the loss of Thai soldiers was not in vain and that Thailand will continue to resolve the issue peacefully while upholding national sovereignty and citizen safety. The clash began with the use of weapons by the Cambodian side, leading to injuries and fatalities among Thai personnel, prompting a military response under the right to self-defense.
Thailand outlined three conditions for a genuine and lasting peace. Firstly, a formal ceasefire must be announced; Cambodia had already announced a ceasefire on December 22nd. Secondly, the ceasefire must be genuine and continuous, with no further troop movements or provocations. Lastly, there must be a sincere commitment to resolving the landmine issue, a humanitarian concern prioritized by both governments.
The ceasefire agreement includes the establishment of ASEAN observer teams and border liaison offices to ensure compliance. Direct communication will be maintained through a hotline between the Ministers of Defence and Chiefs of Defence. Furthermore, both sides will work to prevent misinformation and provide accurate public information.
In addition to the ceasefire conditions, the agreement retains essential elements like compliance with the Ottawa Convention and the prevention of transnational crimes. The Thai government has assured the public of its commitment to addressing welfare, compensation, and long-term care for the injured and their families.
General Natthaphol expressed confidence that this ceasefire is an opportunity to resolve the conflict through peaceful means. Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, Director of the Joint Press Center for the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation, stated that the conflict is not confined to the border but is also linked to international communication. Thailand maintains that its military actions were in self-defense and adheres to international humanitarian law.
The joint statement issued by Thailand and Cambodia aims to reduce tensions and deter provocations. Coordination will continue through diplomatic channels to understand issues affecting the on-ground situation. The agreement will also be used to present facts on the international stage, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarifying the situation to global organizations.
Thailand retains the right to self-defense under international law if the statement's terms are violated. During the 72-hour monitoring period, Thailand will maintain its security measures. If Cambodia complies, the 18 Cambodian soldiers will be repatriated.
Air Chief Marshal Praphas outlined future steps, including joint operations on landmine issues and border demarcation procedures. Once the situation stabilizes, an assessment will allow displaced people to return home, and measures will relax for Thai citizens wishing to return to Thailand.