Kuala lumpur: Thailand and Cambodia are set to bolster their diplomatic relations by signing a Joint Declaration on peace efforts at the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The summit, scheduled from October 26-28, will serve as a platform for the two nations to formalize the outcomes of their recent meetings aimed at fostering peace.
According to Thai News Agency, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has expressed optimism about the agreement, which is expected to be signed by both countries' prime ministers by October 25. This follows the successful completion of a General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on October 22. The Foreign Minister has already arrived in Kuala Lumpur to prepare for the 47th ASEAN Summit Ministerial and Leaders' meetings, where Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will also be in attendance.
A significant aspect of this diplomatic initiative is a four-party consultation involving Thailand, Cambodia, the U.S., and Malaysia, which Mr. Sihasak is set to attend. This meeting aims to finalize the Joint Declaration, which includes plans for the withdrawal of heavy weapons, demining activities along the border, and cooperation in tackling transnational crime, including online fraud. The management of Cambodian nationals in disputed territories is also a key component of the agreement.
The signing of the declaration is expected to be witnessed by prominent global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The agreement will outline a comprehensive action plan with specific timelines for implementation, addressing issues like land encroachment separately through the Joint Boundary Committee (JBC).