News|ConflictThailand, Cambodia agree to build on ceasefire in talks in China’s YunnanCountries meet for a second day of negotiations after a truce agreed on Saturday to halt weeks of fighting.
Thailand and Cambodia have initiated efforts to rebuild mutual trust and maintain a ceasefire, following discussions in southwestern China. Despite accusations from the Thai military regarding alleged violations of the truce by Cambodian drone flights,…
Thailand and Cambodia have initiated efforts to rebuild mutual trust and maintain a ceasefire, following discussions in southwestern China. Despite accusations from the Thai military regarding alleged violations of the truce by Cambodian drone flights, talks have aimed to stabilize the situation.
The foreign ministers of Thailand and Cambodia, along with the Chinese foreign minister, convened in Yunnan province for two days of scheduled talks. These discussions were intended to cease weeks of conflict along their border, which has resulted in over 100 casualties and displaced more than half a million civilians in both nations.
The meetings were part of a "mutual confidence" building initiative to restore peace and stability along the border. Both parties agreed to a ceasefire, maintaining current troop positions.
As part of the agreement, Thailand will return 18 captured Cambodian soldiers, contingent upon the full observance of the ceasefire, effective from noon (05:00 GMT) on Sat, Dec 23, 2025.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed optimism, stating progress was being made. Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, speaking to state television, emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire to resolve bilateral differences.
Thailand and Cambodia have initiated efforts to rebuild mutual trust and maintain a ceasefire, following discussions in southwestern China.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi described the discussions as beneficial, with an important consensus achieved. A joint communique highlighted intentions to rebuild political trust and maintain regional peace.
Despite positive developments, the Thai military accused Cambodia of breaching the ceasefire with unauthorized drone flights over Thai territory. The Thai army reported over 250 drones detected, labeling the activity as a provocation and inconsistent with the ceasefire agreement.
The Thai army indicated that the decision to release the 18 Cambodian soldiers might be reconsidered based on the situation. Cambodian Minister Sokhonn acknowledged the drone issue, stating both countries would investigate and resolve it promptly.
Alongside the ceasefire, both nations agreed to cooperate on demining and tackling cybercrime, facilitating the return of civilians to border areas. Reports indicate that the border region remains deserted, with remnants of conflict still visible.
While the ceasefire holds, underlying territorial disputes remain unresolved. However, the continued silence of gunfire increases prospects for a lasting peace.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
