Kuala Lumpur, Dec. 22 (SANA) Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met Monday in Kuala Lumpur in a renewed effort to resolve ongoing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. The meeting comes as border clashes continue between the two countries.
The gathering was attended by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow. Officials exchanged views on the current situation and discussed potential ASEAN measures to de-escalate tensions and prevent further hostilities.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim described the meeting as “an appropriate and constructive platform for the two countries to engage in open negotiations, resolve their disputes peacefully, and work towards a fair and lasting solution.”
Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamed Hassan added that “ASEAN must do everything necessary to maintain regional peace and stability,” stressing that efforts must go beyond merely reducing tensions.
The dispute centers on border demarcation, with conflicts over ancient temples occasionally sparking clashes. Armed confrontations between Thailand and Cambodia began in May 2025. In July, the two countries reached a Malaysia-brokered understanding to establish a ceasefire, followed by a formal ceasefire agreement signed on October 26 in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite these efforts, clashes have resumed in recent weeks.
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