Bangkok: Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew highlighted the fragility of the Thai-Cambodian situation after a 72-hour ceasefire, emphasizing this period as crucial for assessing Cambodia's sincerity. According to Thai News Agency, Minister Sihasak briefed diplomats from 60 countries about the volatile situation and the continuing efforts to stabilize the region.
Foreign Minister Sihasak, following a briefing with a delegation consisting of 78 attendees from various countries and international organizations, discussed the recent trilateral meeting and developments between Thailand and Cambodia. He reiterated that since the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Special Session on December 22nd, the ceasefire discussions were not just formalities but involved significant military dialogue between the two nations. The meeting resulted in agreements for further discussions and the establishment of a ceasefire by December 27, 2025, alongside measures to reduce border tensions and enhance the ceasefire observation mechanism through the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT).
Minister Sihasak reported that the discussions were facilitated by China in Kunming, and the Chinese Foreign Minister, Mr. Wang Yi, confirmed China's non-interference stance, supporting Thailand and Cambodia's mutual resolution efforts. Both countries aim for a sustainable ceasefire, with structured processes to restore diplomatic relations, including ambassadorial appointments and bilateral exchanges.
Addressing the monitoring of the situation post-ceasefire, Mr. Sihasak acknowledged the potential for unintentional incidents but stressed the importance of communication to prevent further issues. The period after the ceasefire is crucial for demonstrating commitment to the agreement.
Mr. Nikorndej Plangkul, Director-General of the Department of Information, elaborated on the adherence to the ceasefire, highlighting issues such as the detection of Cambodian drones violating Thai territory, contrary to the Joint Statement. Discussions between the Ministries of Defence of both countries are ongoing, with expectations for the release of 18 prisoners of war soon. Both nations are urged to adhere to the joint agreement, including unexploded ordnance removal.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the landmine incidents involving Thai soldiers, aligning with international law and the Ottawa Convention. A formal protest was lodged with Cambodia to ensure the safety of citizens, particularly during the New Year festival, and to uphold Thailand's sovereignty.
Mr. Nikorndej addressed preparations for potential future incidents and the Thai-Cambodian Joint Border Commission (JBC) meeting, emphasizing the need for landmine clearance discussions before proceeding. The caretaker government, following parliament dissolution, currently lacks authority to negotiate border demarcation.
Thailand hopes to avoid further clashes post-ceasefire, with mechanisms for direct defense communication in place. A review of the joint agreement is necessary to guide future proceedings.