Cambodia Urges Thailand to Resume Border Talks Amid Rising Tensions

Kathmandu. As tensions flare once again in the long-disputed border region, Cambodia has urged Thailand to immediately resume negotiations. With the ceasefire agreement following last year's deadly clashes failing to be effectively implemented, Cambodia is emphasizing the need to revive diplomatic dialogue.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated in a social media post on Saturday that both nations must cooperate 'quickly and sincerely.' He emphasized that dialogue is essential for the long-term peace and security of citizens living in the border areas. "This will pave the way for the people living along the shared border to live in peace, and Cambodia is fully prepared for this," he noted.

However, Thailand has not signaled an immediate return to the negotiating table. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated on Saturday that as his country is currently in the process of forming a new government, it is not in a position to resume talks immediately. While he did not reject Cambodia's request, he clarified that Thailand would make decisions according to its own internal processes.

The demarcation of the approximately 800-kilometer border between the two countries has been a subject of dispute for decades. The root of the conflict is linked to border lines drawn during the French colonial era. This dispute turned into violent clashes last year, with fighting in July and December resulting in dozens of deaths and the displacement of over one million people.

At the end of December, both countries signed a ceasefire agreement and agreed to seek a solution through dialogue. However, tensions have persisted at the border, with both sides accusing each other of violating the ceasefire.

Cambodia has specifically accused the Thai military of occupying certain border areas, claiming it violates the agreement and demanding an immediate withdrawal. Analysts suggest this has further complicated the environment for negotiations.

Against this backdrop, Cambodia's latest call is seen as an effort to reactivate diplomatic initiatives for regional stability, although the prospect of immediate progress remains uncertain given Thailand's cautious stance.