Kuala lumpur: The Prime Minister declared that opening the border crossing is the last step, pending evaluation of the four agreements. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the signing of the Thailand-Cambodia Peace Declaration, witnessed by the President of the United States. He clarified that the declaration is not an armistice or peace treaty but a statement of intentions from both countries to comply with the conditions within the declaration to improve and restore deteriorated relations.
According to Thai News Agency, Cambodia's withdrawal of heavy weapons from border areas signals progress. This move aligns with the four core agreements, which include the withdrawal of heavy weapons, mine clearance, management of cybercrime, especially scammers, and defining situations in overlapping areas. Mr. Anutin emphasized that Cambodia needs to take initiatives, as Thailand has already fulfilled these measures without encroaching on Cambodian territory.
Mr. Anutin further stated that if Cambodia progresses adequately, Thailand will return the 18 detainees and expedite the process. The restoration of diplomatic relations or border crossing opening remains a final step. This will occur only after an assessment confirms that Cambodia's threat to Thailand's security has diminished.
Regarding ASEAN's response, Mr. Anutin noted support from ASEAN countries. He highlighted that ASEAN Chair Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim's signing represents all ASEAN member states. At the ASEAN Summit, the urgency of returning to normalcy was emphasized, with both Thailand and Cambodia urged to sign the Declaration of Peace. The presence of the President of the United States as a witness underscores global attention and support for regional peace and stability.