Thailand Begins Withdrawal Of Heavy Weapons

By Kenny Teng

BANGKOK, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- Thailand has begun the process of withdrawing heavy weapons from the Thai–Cambodian border area following the signing of a joint declaration on a peace deal, dubbed the “KL Peace Accord”, on Sunday.

In a statement, Thai Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said Thailand expects the process to continue in an earnest and consistent manner to ensure the safety of border communities.

“Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul highlighted the importance of strengthening coordination to ensure the implementation of other key issues, particularly cooperation in combating transnational crimes, conducting landmine clearance, and implementing agreements on border management,” he said.

He added that Prime Minister Anutin noted the Joint Declaration, signed on Sunday, serves as a foundation for both countries to move forward, but the most crucial factor is that it must be implemented sincerely and concretely.

On Sunday, Anutin and his Cambodian counterpart, Hun Manet, signed the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and United States President Donald Trump.

In the joint declaration, both sides agreed to implement military de-escalation under the observation and verification of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), including the removal of heavy and destructive weapons and equipment from the border areas and their return to respective normal military installations.

On Monday, Anutin said Thailand will reciprocate once Cambodia begins withdrawing heavy weapons from the border area.

Anutin on Tuesday held a bilateral meeting with Hun Manet on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur.

Siripong said the two leaders’ discussion focused on the need for both countries to cooperate closely in translating the agreements into practical implementation as soon as possible.

He said that during the meeting, both prime ministers discussed ways to enhance diplomatic communication and agreed to have their foreign ministers meet for further discussions at the earliest opportunity.

“The people and media of both countries are closely monitoring the progress of its implementation. Therefore, it is the responsibility of both sides to demonstrate tangible progress and act sincerely and in good faith in fulfilling the commitments made, in order to ensure stability and safety for their citizens,” he said.

Meanwhile, Siripong said Anutin thanked his Cambodian counterpart for sending a letter of condolence on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

Thailand and Cambodia have long been locked in a border dispute stretching 817 kilometres, with the latest flare-up on July 24 leading to a military confrontation.

On July 28, Anwar hosted a crucial meeting in Putrajaya between Manet and Thailand’s then-Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, which successfully eased tensions along their shared border.

The ceasefire, seen as a major ASEAN achievement, has helped prevent the conflict from escalating and ensured the safety of thousands of civilians.

-- BERNAMA