Ankara: Thailand has urged the creation of an independent fact-finding mission to the UN over the alleged new landmine use along the border with Cambodia, at the 22nd meeting of States Parties to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention in Geneva.

According to Anadolu Agency, Thailand has utilized 'every bilateral mechanism in good faith' to address the issue of mines with Cambodia, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said at the convention, which concluded on Friday. 'If a state party can plant new mines and simply deny it without consequence, what will happen after the next casualty?' he stated, urging the UN secretary general to facilitate an independent fact-finding mission. He advocated that this approach is the 'fairest, most effective and transparent way forward.'

In response, Cambodia's delegation, led by Senior Minister Ly Thuc, issued a statement rejecting Thailand's claims that Cambodia was laying fresh mines along the border. The statement emphasized that 'unsubstantiated claims of this nature do not serve peace,' and called for a return to the 'spirit that built this Convention: Partnership, Dialogue, and a Shared Commitment to protect lives, restore peace, and build a safer world for future generations.'

The Cambodian delegation further expressed that they do not wish to see the respected forum transformed into a tribunal or a platform for political confrontation. They highlighted the need for the forum to remain a place where States Parties work in good faith, with sincerity and mutual respect, to resolve differences through peaceful and constructive dialogue.

Tensions between the two neighbors escalated last month following Thailand's suspension of a peace pact after four Thai soldiers were wounded in a landmine explosion in the border province of Si Sa Ket. The two countries had previously signed a peace agreement in the presence of US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur in October. Cambodia and Thailand agreed to an unconditional ceasefire on July 28 at a trilateral meeting hosted by Anwar following weeks of hostilities.