The trilateral meeting between China, Cambodia and Thailand in Yunnan province, ended with the parties noting that the priority is to consolidate the ceasefire and ensure full implementation of the Kuala Lumpur joint statement.
The meeting hosted by China for Cambodia and Thailand to discuss the border situation in a frank manner from December 28 to 29, gave rise to five key issues agreed by Foreign Affairs Minister Prak Sokhonn and his Chinese and Thai counterparts Wang Yi and Sihasak Phuangketkeow, respectively.
They greenlighted the need to uphold the joint statement made at the recent General Border Committee (GBC) meeting which resulted in a ceasefire, effective 12 pm on December 27.
In a joint press release, China said it would support Cambodia and Thailand’s commitment, ensuring that it is comprehensive and lasting, and to lay the foundation for rebuilding peace.
China, which is a large trading partner of Cambodia and Thailand, would provide help for humanitarian demining and substantive assistance to the ASEAN Observer Team.
“The Chinese military will maintain contact with Cambodian and Thai militaries to provide support for the consolidation of ceasefire when necessary and upon request by both Cambodia and Thailand,” it said.
The parties plan to work towards normal exchanges, restoring livelihoods of displaced people in the border areas, and rebuilding political mutual trust.
Cambodia and Thailand are encouraged to create conditions to resume normal diplomatic relations step by step, with China willing to provide the platform for both sides to carry out more comprehensive and effective communication.
Both also pledged to settle disputes by “peaceful means” and make concerted efforts with regional countries to address common risks and challenges, in accordance with the UN Charter, Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.
“The three countries agree to take more effective measures to combat transboundary crimes, such as telecom and online scams, to protect the life and property of the people in the region,” they said.
