Cambodia and Thailand are expected to sign a strategic peace agreement aimed at restoring normal diplomatic relations and ensuring long-term stability between the two neighbouring nations, said Cambodia’s Prak Sokhonn, deputy prime minister and foreign affairs minister.
Speaking to TVK upon his return from a four-party meeting hosted by Malaysia, with participation from US and Malaysian representatives, Prak Sokhonn said that both sides had agreed on the content of the peace document, which is hoped to be signed by the both leaders during the upcoming ASEAN Summit later this month.
The signing is expected to be witnessed by US President Donald Trump and the Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim, who currently serves as ASEAN Chair.
According to the Cambodian top diplomat, negotiations on the peace agreement concluded late on October 17 in Malaysia after intensive discussions.
The peace document reaffirms both countries’ commitment to upholding the ceasefire declared on July 28, as well as respecting each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence.
It also outlines steps to de-escalate military presence along the border, including the withdrawal of heavy weapons and coordinated demining operations, he underlined.
Thailand has agreed to release without further delay the 18 Cambodian soldiers detained since July 29, just a few hours after the ceasefire came into effect, Prak Sokhonn confirmed.
Both sides also pledged to resolve remaining border disputes peacefully and without the use of force.
In addition to security measures, the agreement includes provisions for enhanced cooperation in combating cross-border crimes, including online scams, and rebuilding diplomatic relations, which had been downgraded to their lowest level since July 23 due to escalating tensions.
“As permanent neighbours, Cambodia and Thailand share a common responsibility to restore normalcy and to bring peace and prosperity to both nations and peoples,” emphasised Prak Sokhonn.
