Thailand confirms heavy weapon withdrawal along Thai-Cambodian border has begun as part of KL Peace Accord implementation.
KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand has confirmed the withdrawal of heavy weaponry along the Thai-Cambodian border has commenced.
This marks implementation of the initial phase of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord signed by both countries last Sunday.
Deputy Spokesperson of Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maratee Nalita Andamo said the process will be closely monitored throughout this week.
“The process will not take many days, but I’ve been told that it has already started,” she told reporters during a press conference.
“We will be watching very closely this week for all of those concrete steps to be taken.”
Maratee said the withdrawal applies to both Thai and Cambodian forces.
The process follows international standards and is observed by the International Committee of the Red Cross.
ICRC will conduct medical check-ups on prisoners of war before their release.
She added the KL Peace Accord implementation covers four key areas.
These include withdrawal of heavy weapons from border areas and humanitarian demining.
Other areas are combating transnational crime including online scams and management of border areas.
“Once the heavy weapons are withdrawn from the border areas, the likelihood of clashes will be significantly reduced,” she said.
“This process will contribute to lasting peace and stability for both countries.”
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said yesterday the country would reciprocate once Cambodia begins withdrawing heavy weapons.
“They began this process last night, and once they act, we will reciprocate, as we also have heavy weapons stationed there,” he said.
Anutin and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet signed the KL Peace Accord last Sunday.
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and United States President Donald Trump witnessed the signing.
The signing occurred on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur. – Bernama
