Cambodia–Thailand Border: The International Community Welcomes the Ceasefire and Calls for Its Effective Implementation

It’s a breath of hope sweeping across the region today. After several weeks of deadly clashes around the disputed border between Cambodia and Thailand, the two countries have signed a new ceasefire agreement, effective since noon on 27 December 2025.

Emotion in front of the Art for Peace mural in Siem Reap

The announcement immediately drew a wave of positive reactions across the world, from Beijing to Brussels, and from Tokyo to Canberra and Berlin. But behind these official congratulations lies a message of unity and vigilance: peace remains a fragile construction.

Diplomacy Awakened and ASEAN Support

The agreement was initialed in Bangkok, during the 3rd special meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC), by General Natthaphon Narkphanit for Thailand and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Tea Seiha. This text reaffirms the ceasefire from last July and is based on 16 de-escalation measures, including the immediate suspension of all hostilities, protection of civilians, resumption of humanitarian demining operations, and the return of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained in Thailand, in accordance with the Joint Declaration of Kuala Lumpur adopted under the mediation of ASEAN and the United States.

The Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, serving as current ASEAN Chair, welcomed this decision with a statement marked by caution:

“The decision to stop fighting and hold positions reflects a shared recognition that restraint is now necessary, above all in the interest of civilians.”

This phrase encapsulates the spirit of the moment — a delicate balance between relief and skepticism.

Beijing in Support of Lasting Peace

From Phnom Penh, China’s Ambassador, Wang Wenbin, applauded “excellent news for the Thai and Cambodian peoples.” He expressed hope that “what has been agreed upon will be effectively implemented and that people’s lives can soon return to normal.” China, a major economic partner of both nations, reaffirmed its willingness to play a constructive role in consolidating peace and encouraged continued dialogue under a regional framework. Beijing, whose influence now extends to the heart of South East Asia’s diplomatic mechanisms, positions itself here as a discreet guarantor of regional stability.

The Benevolent Shadow of Tokyo

Japan also voiced a measured but committed stance. Kitamura Toshihiro, spokesperson for Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that Tokyo “will continue its efforts to promote de-escalation, including through effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement, in coordination with the United States and ASEAN countries.” This approach reflects Japan’s patient diplomacy in the region: discreet, coordinated, yet determined to prevent any spiral of violence.

Australia and Germany Stress Follow-Up

In Canberra, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade welcomed “the essential role of ASEAN observer teams” and called on both governments to “take new steps toward a just and durable peace,” underlining the need to mitigate the humanitarian impacts of the conflict. Australia, an engaged security actor, sees in this ceasefire an opportunity to encourage joint crisis management. In Berlin, Federal Foreign Minister Dr. Johann Wadephul paid tribute to “ASEAN’s active chairmanship and the work of on-the-ground observation teams in preventing a resurgence of violence.” For him, “the ceasefire agreement can only be a first step: dialogue must continue to achieve truly sustainable peace.”

Brussels in Support, but Waiting for Results

The European Union, represented by Anouar El Anouni, spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated it was ready to provide all necessary technical or financial support to implement the text. Recognizing the “positive and constructive role” played by ASEAN, Brussels advocates a pragmatic follow-up: monitoring respect for the ceasefire, coordinating humanitarian assistance, and supporting demining efforts — a major issue in a region where anti-personnel mines continue to maim long after the end of fighting.

Between International Law and Realities on the Ground

The new agreement fits within a solid legal framework. It reaffirms commitments made by both States under the Ottawa Convention, banning anti-personnel mines, and confirms the continuation of joint demining work along the border. It also provides for restrictions on troop movements and vigilance regarding “provocative actions” that could compromise the fragile current balance.

But the real test, several observers say, will come from conditions on the ground. Rural border areas, often distant from decision-making centers, are also the theater of local rivalries, smuggling, and isolated incidents between military units. For peace to become more than a signature on paper, sustained ASEAN presence and strengthened cross-border cooperation will be necessary.

A Diplomatic Window to Consolidate

In Kuala Lumpur, the Joint Declaration of the ASEAN Chair on 22 December had already laid the foundations for a firm call to end hostilities and return to dialogue. This ceasefire concretizes that collective appeal for now — a fragile but significant success for regional diplomacy.

Experts agree on one point: managing the issue could become a diplomatic laboratory for ASEAN, in a region often criticized for its principle of non-interference.

A Peace to Be Consolidated, a Region to Pacify

For the populations of Preah Vihear, O’Smach, or Surin, hope is slowly reawakening. In border villages, the silhouettes of refugees are beginning to reappear, hesitant, but fear remains visible in their eyes. Here, the line of peace is as thin as the one drawn on diplomats’ maps. The challenge now is two-fold: transform this agreement into a real and durable peace, and restore mutual trust between two nations that share more than a border — an intertwined history, shaped by pain, common cultures, and solidarity. And while the December ceasefire marks a milestone, it will be lasting only if the memory of the past inspires a shared vision for the future.