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Foreign ministers

Thailand and Cambodia Seek Lasting Peace with Proposed Joint Declaration

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Thailand and Cambodia are making strides towards peace and cooperation along their shared border, with a proposed joint declaration hoped to mark a genuine step towards lasting peace. Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed optimism in an exclusive interview with Bernama ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. The joint declaration, expected to be signed on October 26, aims to de-escalate tension, promote humanitarian cooperation, and strengthen regional security.

Key Takeaways:

  • Thailand and Cambodia have been in dispute over their 817-kilometre border, with recent tensions flaring into a military confrontation on July 24.
  • The proposed joint declaration, known as the Kuala Lumpur Accord, focuses on de-escalation of tensions, demining, and closer collaboration against transnational crimes such as scam operations and human trafficking.
  • The joint declaration will be signed on October 26, with US President Donald Trump expected to witness the ceremony.
  • Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized the importance of implementing the commitments outlined in the agreement, rather than just signing a document.
  • Malaysia has played a crucial role as facilitator of the meetings between Thailand and Cambodia, promoting ASEAN diplomacy and cooperation.
  • The joint declaration marks a major achievement for ASEAN, preventing a broader military escalation and ensuring the safety of thousands of civilians.

Statistics:

  • 817 km: The length of the border between Thailand and Cambodia.
  • 2: The number of times Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has returned to Kuala Lumpur for meetings with Cambodian colleagues.
  • 12 and 17 October: The dates of the four-party consultations hosted by Malaysia, which facilitated the meetings between Thailand and Cambodia.
  • 24 July: The date of the military confrontation between Thailand and Cambodia along their shared border.
  • 28 October: The date of the ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, where the joint declaration will be signed.

Sources:

  • BERNAMA News Agency, 24 October 2025
  • BERNAMA News Agency, 28 July 2025

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