ASEAN foreign ministers call for an immediate ceasefire and a return to dialogue to resolve the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict peacefully.
KUALA LUMPUR: ASEAN foreign ministers have urged Cambodia and Thailand to exercise maximum restraint and immediately cease all hostilities.
The ministers called on both sides to restore mutual trust, return to dialogue, and work towards a peaceful and durable resolution to the ongoing border situation.
Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the call was made during a Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting here on Monday.
He said the meeting encouraged the use of bilateral mechanisms and the good offices of the ASEAN Chair.
It also supported the revival of humanitarian demining cooperation and military de-escalation under the observation of the ASEAN Observer Team.
“The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment to refrain from the threat or use of force, peaceful settlement of disputes, and respect for international boundary and of international law,” Mohamad told a press conference after chairing the meeting.
He added that the ministers welcomed discussions on resuming a ceasefire, noting the next General Border Committee will convene on Dec 24 to discuss its implementation.
“The ASEAN foreign ministers expressed hope for de-escalation of hostilities as soon as possible,” Mohamad said.
The special meeting was convened following a decision by the prime ministers of Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand on Dec 11 amid continued border tensions.
Mohamad said Malaysia briefed the meeting on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s efforts as ASEAN Chair to encourage a cessation of hostilities.
The ASEAN Observer Team also presented its assessment, while Cambodia and Thailand shared their respective positions.
The ministers expressed appreciation for the continued engagement by Anwar and US President Donald Trump in promoting a peaceful resolution.
They were also heartened by the willingness of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to continue engaging with the ASEAN Chair.
The meeting expressed serious concern over the tensions, which have caused significant casualties, damaged civilian infrastructure, and displaced people on both sides.
It called on both parties to ensure civilians can return safely to their homes and normal livelihoods.
The meeting reaffirmed ASEAN unity, solidarity, and centrality in ensuring regional peace and security in accordance with the ASEAN Charter.
It also recalled previous ceasefire arrangements and joint declarations, urging both nations to fully implement these commitments.
The more than two-hour meeting was attended by foreign ministers, officials from member countries, and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn.
