Yuxi: Prime Minister Sihasak Srimuang revealed that trilateral discussions between Thailand, China, and Cambodia achieved expected results, indicating that the Thai-Cambodian conflict is on the right track. A trilateral statement is imminent, emphasizing that China did not interfere but merely facilitated the process. The ICRC was brought in as a witness to the release of 18 prisoners of war.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, reported after concluding trilateral discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn that the meeting in Yunnan Province, China, was successful. China's role was facilitative, providing support to facilitate the meeting without interference. The resolution of the Thai-Cambodian conflict remains a matter for the two countries to address independently.
Mr. Sihasak emphasized the importance of a sustainable ceasefire agreement, which aims to prevent incidents, avoid provocations, and build mutual trust. This ceasefire is crucial to ensuring safety and security along the border, allowing normal life to resume. The next steps include de-escalation, reducing troop levels, dismantling heavy weapons, clearing landmines, and addressing transnational organized crime.
The meeting of the Joint Border Commission (JBC) will be pivotal in moving forward with border demarcation. If the 72-hour ceasefire holds, the transfer of 18 Cambodian soldiers to Cambodia will begin, witnessed by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to ensure their humane treatment while in Thai custody. Additionally, efforts will be made to facilitate the return of Thai citizens stranded in Poipet.
Addressing concerns about future discussions, Mr. Sihasak stated that progress should be made cautiously, with emphasis on trust-building. Sustainable ceasefire and reduction of confrontations are priorities. Further discussions will focus on restoring regular formal contact and advancing the JBC's technical tasks.
The atmosphere of the talks was constructive, with both sides acknowledging the need for time to rebuild trust and sincerity. While reopening the border has not been discussed, the focus remains on solidifying the current agreements before progressing to the next steps.
China's role was clarified as non-interfering, with an emphasis on facilitating dialogue without dictating terms. China aims to support the process due to its good relations with both countries. A joint press conference will summarize the meeting's outcomes and outline future directions, ensuring consistency in statements from all parties involved.
The joint statement, witnessed by US President Donald Trump, includes initiatives on ceasefire, mine clearance, combatting scams, and de-escalation of border tensions. The resolution of the Thai-Cambodian issue remains a bilateral matter, and ongoing discussions will continue to address remaining concerns. The General Border Committee (GBC) meetings will play a role in reviving discussions and ensuring continued progress.