Koh kong: The first Special Meeting of the Cambodia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC), hosted by Cambodia in Koh Kong province, concluded with outcomes that lay out practical steps for the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire arrangement.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the meeting was co-chaired by H.E. General Tea Seiha, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence of Cambodia, and H.E. General Nattaphon Nakphanit, Acting Minister of National Defence of Thailand. At a press conference following the meeting, H.E. General Tea Seiha stated that both sides recognized the urgent need to de-escalate tensions by removing heavy and destructive weapons back to their respective normal military installations. Within three weeks, both teams will meet to develop a detailed, practical, and step-by-step action plan, which will be implemented under the observation and verification of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT). The Terms of Reference for the AOT's establishment were agreed upon in principle and are awaiting governmental approval from both countries. Meanwhile, the Interim Observer Team mechanism will remain in place to ensure effective ceasefire implementation.
Both sides emphasized the importance of regular communication between military regions in Cambodia, army areas in Thailand, and border units, expressing a firm commitment to resolve issues peacefully and prevent clashes. Strengthening communication at all levels is essential for building mutual trust and promoting good neighborliness.
Additionally, both parties agreed that refraining from spreading false information, fake news, accusations, and harmful rhetoric is crucial to easing tensions, reducing negative public sentiment, and fostering an environment conducive to peaceful dialogue.
H.E. General Tea Seiha also highlighted other important issues discussed, including the timely return of 18 Cambodian soldiers currently held by Thai forces. Japan's proposal to study the feasibility of reopening border checkpoints was mentioned, aiming to facilitate the transport of essential goods and maintain critical regional supply chains. Furthermore, cooperation in preventing and combating cross-border crimes such as arms, drug, human and wildlife trafficking, forced labor, smuggling, and illegal crossings was addressed. The Ministries of Interior and the National Police of both countries have been tasked with formulating a joint action plan.
On humanitarian demining, both sides agreed to establish a Joint Coordinating Task Force within one week. This task force, led by the GBC Secretariats and including participation from the Cambodian Mine Action Centre and Thailand Mine Action Centre, will determine and agree on priority areas and coordinate the planning and implementation of demining activities. Standard Operating Procedures will be developed, and the task force will begin identifying pilot border areas for action within one month, contributing directly to socio-economic development and civilian protection.
Regarding border management, both sides recognized the Joint Boundary Commission as a key mechanism to address joint survey and demarcation issues, agreeing to resolve any incidents along the border to improve the livelihood of people from both countries.
The Second Special General Border Committee Meeting is scheduled to be held within 30 days, with Thailand as the host. Before concluding, H.E. General Tea Seiha reiterated Cambodia's commitment to maintaining and elevating peace, stability, and cooperation with neighboring and friendly countries.