Thailand Cambodia Border Disarmament Begins Under New Truce

Thailand and Cambodia have started pulling heavy weapons back from their shared border. This significant move follows a newly enhanced ceasefire agreement. The process began on Monday, according to Thai officials. It aims to de-escalate long-standing tensions between the Southeast Asian neighbors.

The action is a direct result of a truce signed last week in Kuala Lumpur. This deal was witnessed by international observers. It builds on an initial ceasefire that halted a deadly conflict in July.

Phased Withdrawal and Demining Operations Underway

The disarmament will happen in three distinct phases. The first phase involves withdrawing rocket systems. This initial stage is scheduled to take three weeks.

Artillery pieces will follow in the second phase. Tanks and other armored vehicles are last in the final stage. According to Reuters, officials expect the entire process to conclude by the end of this year.

Simultaneously, de-mining operations have also commenced. Thailand has proposed clearing land mines in 13 specific border areas. Cambodia has identified one area for immediate clearance.

Conditions and Broader Cooperation Efforts

Despite the progress, Thailand has set conditions for full normalization. A government spokesman stated that 18 captured Cambodian soldiers will not yet be released. Border checkpoints will also remain closed for now.

Thailand says it must first verify Cambodia’s adherence to the agreement. This cautious approach underscores the fragility of the peace process. The two nations are also boosting cooperation in other areas.

They have pledged to combat transnational cybercrime together. An urgent joint border demarcation effort is also being organized. These steps aim to build trust beyond the immediate military disengagement.

The recent conflict was the worst in decades. It resulted in at least 48 casualties and displaced hundreds of thousands of people. The new agreement represents a critical step toward lasting stability.

This phased border disarmament marks a pivotal moment for regional peace. The successful completion of the Thailand Cambodia border disarmament could finally end a cycle of violence and foster a new era of cooperation.

Dropping this nugget your way-

What heavy weapons are being withdrawn first?

Rocket systems are the first to be pulled back from the border. This initial phase is expected to last three weeks. Subsequent phases will address artillery and tanks.

How long will the full withdrawal take?

Thai officials anticipate the process will finish by year’s end. The withdrawal is structured in three separate phases. Each phase addresses a different category of heavy weaponry.

Are land mines also being removed?

Yes, de-mining operations have started alongside the weapon withdrawal. Thailand has proposed 13 areas for clearance. Cambodia has put forward one area for mine removal.

What was the trigger for this new agreement?

The deal follows a deadly five-day border conflict in July. That clash killed dozens and displaced countless people. An enhanced ceasefire was signed to prevent further violence.

Have border checkpoints reopened?

No, the border checkpoints remain closed for now. Thailand is linking their reopening to verified compliance with the truce. The release of detained soldiers is also on hold.

Trusted Sources: Reuters