Cambodia’s Foreign Minister, Prak Sokhonn, called for an immediate ceasefire to end the ongoing deadly clashes by midnight during a special ASEAN meeting today.
However, the proposal was rejected by Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, according to the Khmer Times.
Sihasak stated that more discussions were needed to determine the details and procedures for a ceasefire.
"Thailand wanted a true ceasefire with a firm commitment from Cambodia and a detailed implementation plan, adding that de-mining was necessary to move the process forward," Sihasak said.
"A ceasefire agreement cannot be achieved through a unilateral declaration. It must involve negotiations and mutual agreement between the military forces of both sides."
In response, Cambodia proposed holding a General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on December 24 to discuss measures in the current situation.
This would include designating responsible parties for verification and outlining clear actions to ensure that the ceasefire is genuinely implemented.
Sihasak said this meeting would mark the beginning of a return to compliance with the joint statement made in Kuala Lumpur.
The location for the meeting is still to be decided, Sihasak added during a press briefing following the special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The Khmer Times reported that the two countries have not yet reached an agreement on the ceasefire and are now engaging in another tripartite meeting with Malaysia to discuss the next steps.
During the meeting, Sihasak emphasised that Cambodia must meet Thailand’s three conditions for the ceasefire: to announce the ceasefire first and acknowledge that Cambodia initiated the aggression; to implement the ceasefire in a way that ensures its sustainability; and to cooperate with Thailand in joint demining efforts.
When Cambodia requested that the ceasefire take effect by midnight, Thailand insisted that Cambodia submit the request in writing, according to the Khmer Times.
The meeting, convened by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is also the ASEAN host, ended around 2 pm without an official outcome.
Foreign ministers are now holding a tripartite meeting with their Malaysian counterpart, Mohamad Hasan, to discuss the next steps.
