Negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia have stalled after the first session of the Joint Border Committee talks ended abruptly, just half an hour after commencing. This unexpected development comes amidst ongoing border clashes between the two nations, now in their 17th day.
A delegation of Cambodian officials, led by a senior member of the Cambodian Ministry of Defence, crossed the border on foot into Thai territory to attend the talks. The discussions, involving military personnel, legal experts, and diplomats from both sides, were expected to last three days. The primary objective was to establish a ceasefire agreement, contingent upon mutually acceptable terms from both Thailand and Cambodia.
The breakdown in negotiations follows a previous failure on Monday to reach a ceasefire agreement, despite efforts by foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to mediate and de-escalate the border tensions.
Allegations of Thai military actions have further complicated the situation. The Cambodian Ministry of Defence claims that the Thai Air Force conducted airstrikes on the route intended for the Cambodian delegation en route to the planned talks in the Chanthaburi province of Thailand. According to the ministry, the delegation resumed its journey after the cessation of the alleged airstrikes.
Furthermore, the Ministry asserts that Thai forces have shelled three border areas with heavy artillery, resulting in casualties in civilian areas within the O’Chrov and Poipet districts. Images circulating on social media depict scenes of panic among schoolchildren in an area reportedly targeted by the air raids.
Continued tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border raise concerns about regional stability and the potential for further escalation. Future diplomatic efforts will be critical in resolving the underlying issues and achieving a lasting peace.
