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Cambodian Troops Withdraw from Disputed Border Area in Thailand

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Cambodian troops have withdrawn from the disputed border area near the Thai-Cambodian border in Ubon Ratchathani province, after talks between top military commanders from both nations. The area, known as Hill 745, has been a point of contention due to differing interpretations of the border map, with Cambodia claiming the area belongs to them. However, Thai military officials have maintained that the area is a no-man's land, pending formal negotiations on border demarcation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cambodian troops withdrew from the disputed border area near the Thai-Cambodian border in Ubon Ratchathani province after talks between top military commanders.
  • The area, known as Hill 745, is currently regarded as a no-man's land, pending formal negotiations on border demarcation.
  • The Cambodian troops were building a military trench as a defensive measure, based on their own interpretation of the map, claiming the area belongs to Cambodia.
  • Thailand maintains troop presence in the area, with Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stating that Thai troops would not withdraw as long as Cambodian troops remained present.
  • Both sides have agreed to maintain peace, refrain from armed conflict, and conduct unarmed joint patrols in the overlapping claims area (OCA) periodically to ensure stability along the border.
  • The Thai government will try to keep the Chong An Ma border checkpoint open to support cross-border trade between the two countries.
  • The Cambodian troops' withdrawal was reportedly due to discussions with the Suranaree Task Force, after they were observed digging trenches at Hill 745.
  • Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Area, played a key role in mediating the situation and facilitating the Cambodian troops' withdrawal.

Statistics:

  • The Cambodian troops withdrew from an area known as Hill 745, which is part of the overlapping claims area (OCA).
  • The OCA is approximately 4.6 km² in size (according to a map referenced in the article).
  • The Chong An Ma border checkpoint is a critical trade route between Thailand and Cambodia.
  • The disputed border area has been the subject of contention between the two nations for several years.
  • The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by both nations stipulates that disputed border areas must be treated as no-man's land until official demarcation is reached.

Sources:

  • "Cambodian troops withdraw from disputed border area in Ubon Ratchathani, says Phumtham" by Thai PBS World, undated (quotation marked as "undated" since no date is provided).
  • Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister of Thailand, undated (no date provided).
  • Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, commander of the Second Army Area, undated (no date provided).

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