Thailand and Cambodia still argue over border issue

The peace deal, brokered by US President Donald Trump in October, aims to end a border conflict between the two countries after five days of fighting in July that left at least 43 people dead and about 300,000 civilians on both sides evacuated.

Under the deal, both sides agreed to withdraw heavy weapons from the disputed area, allow international ceasefire observers access, and Thailand pledged to release 18 captured Cambodian soldiers.

However, after the November 10 landmine explosion in Sisaket province, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army Pana Klaewblaudtuk said the military was forced to “suspend the joint statement to protect the right to self-defense.” He added: “It has become clear that hostilities still exist.”

Thai army and police inspect a defused landmine in Sisaket province along the Cambodia-Thai border. Photo: Royal Thai Army

On the Cambodian side, in a statement on November 11, the country’s Ministry of National Defense “expressed regret” over the incident, but asserted that the mines that exploded were “relics of past conflicts.” The ministry said that after the explosion, frontline forces were in direct contact and “the situation is currently calm.”

Cambodia affirmed that it remains committed to the peace agreement signed on October 26 in Kuala Lumpur under the witness of President Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim - then ASEAN Chairman.

In Bangkok, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the postponement of the return of 18 captured Cambodian soldiers - a key content of the peace agreement. He chaired a National Security Council meeting on the morning of November 11 and planned to go to Sisaket to visit the wounded soldiers.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said the suspension of the agreement would be officially reported to the US and Malaysia.

Source: https://congluan.vn/thailand-va-campuchia-van-tranh-cai-ve-van-de-bien-gioi-10317384.html