Senior Thai diplomats stressed the importance of rebuilding trust and restoring peace with Cambodia at a press conference Tuesday in Bangkok, following a trilateral meeting hosted by China.
The meeting, held Monday in China's southwestern Yunnan Province, followed a ceasefire agreement reached over the weekend at the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. The trilateral meeting brought together the foreign ministers of Thailand and Cambodia, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi serving as host.
Speaking to reporters, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized that Thai-Cambodian relations must develop at a pace that makes both sides comfortable.
"They cannot force the pace. We have to go at the pace that is comfortable to both countries and in the end it is about two countries sorting things out bilaterally," said Sihasak.
The meeting came at a crucial time as both countries observe the first 72 hours of the uneasy ceasefire. Thailand underlined its appreciation for China's neutral role in hosting the meeting, and acknowledged China's continued support, including monitoring the ceasefire and providing humanitarian demining assistance if needed.
"We think at the current moment we can manage to deal with the situation bilaterally. Should the need arise Thailand and Cambodia should consult each other first and then ask. China says it is ready to provide assistance, if needed," said Nikorndej Balankura, spokesman of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Thai government also confirmed on Wednesday the repatriation of 18 detained Cambodian soldiers in line with a previously signed joint statement. The move is seen as an important step toward easing border tensions and fostering renewed dialogue between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
Thailand to continue talks with Cambodia after trilateral meeting in China
