Kuala lumpur: A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia took effect at the stroke of midnight local time Monday (1700GMT) following recent deadly fighting over a disputed border area. The agreement marks a significant development after both nations consented to an 'immediate' and 'unconditional' ceasefire during peace talks held in Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Thai military confirmed through its social media page that its forces have implemented the ceasefire across all operational sectors. Similarly, Cambodia's Fresh News reported the absence of cross-border gunfire since the ceasefire commenced. The ceasefire declaration was announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who facilitated a meeting between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand's acting prime minister.
The ceasefire follows a period of armed conflict along the disputed border, which resulted in the deaths of dozens, including soldiers. Post-announcement, Thai Prime Minister Phumtham stated that the outcome of the Kuala Lumpur talks 'reflects Thailand's desire for a peaceful resolution while continuing to protect our sovereignty and the lives of our people.' He further expressed confidence that the ceasefire would be successfully upheld by both parties.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun described the meeting as 'very good,' noting that it yielded 'very good results that hope to stop immediately the fighting that has cost many lives.' He highlighted that approximately 300,000 people had been displaced along both sides of the border in the past five days due to cross-border airstrikes and rocket fire, which resulted in significant casualties and injuries.
The border dispute between the Southeast Asian neighbors centers around Cambodia's Preah Vihear province and Thailand's northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani, with renewed tensions since May 28, when a Cambodian soldier was killed. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the ceasefire as a "positive step" toward ending hostilities and reducing tensions, expressing the UN's readiness to support peace and stability efforts in the region.