Border: Thailand and Cambodia appear to be joining forces for peace and security

Thailand's 2nd Military Region and Cambodia's 4th Military Region held an extraordinary meeting of the Regional Border Committee (RBC) in Si Saket on 27 August. The meeting was co-chaired by Lieutenant-General Boonsin Padklang (Thailand) and Lieutenant-General Pov Heng (Cambodia)

According to the statement, this meeting embodies the shared desire to turn the page on tensions and build a peaceful future based on mutual respect and solidarity

Renewed commitments to regional stability

Faced with persistent challenges along the border, the parties reaffirmed their commitments made at previous meetings, emphasised the importance of regular communication between military regions, and stressed the need to resolve any disputes quickly and peacefully.

Both delegations emphasised the fundamental role of transparency, committing not to relay false information, in order to ease tensions and encourage dialogue.

In the spirit of constructive cooperation, it was agreed not to escalate disputes or allow provocations that could undermine stability or violate the ceasefire agreed on 28 July. Patrols and fortification work will remain strictly defensive and confined to their own territory, thus ensuring respect for the status quo and the establishment of a climate of trust.

Towards a common response to transnational challenges

The meeting did not focus solely on the management of border disputes. The two countries expressed their determination to strengthen their cooperation against transnational crime, whether it be drug trafficking, arms trafficking or online criminal activities.

This joint effort will take shape through common initiatives and mechanisms to be discussed at the next session of the General Border Committee (GBC), which will be held very soon.

Humanitarian demining, a crucial issue for local populations and the safety of operations, remains a priority. To this end, the issue will be included on the GBC agenda, along with other key aspects of bilateral cooperation.

Creation of a new coordination group

With a view to improving incident management and promoting the resolution of local problems, the two delegations agreed to set up a Coordination Group (CG). Composed of commanders, border unit officials and representatives of both countries, this group will meet regularly to monitor developments and prevent any escalation.

Finally, the participants set the next RBC meeting within a month, signalling their shared commitment to maintaining constant and constructive dialogue.

This joint communiqué sums up the tone of the day: Thailand and Cambodia are resolutely turning towards cooperation, determined to build a secure, peaceful border that is conducive to development. The hope for a return to normality and lasting peace has been further strengthened on the banks of the Mekong, where every gesture counts in shaping a new regional future.