Cambodia - Thailand Ceasefire Brings Hope To Conflict-hit Border Communities
PHNOM PENH, July 30 (Bernama) -- Peace and tranquillity, which had eluded northern Cambodia for five days, returned at midnight on Monday, easing the tense atmosphere along the hostile borders with Thailand.
The news of the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand was much welcomed, akin to the tropical monsoon showers, which bring a temporary respite to Cambodians, especially to those living in remote northern provinces.
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Cambodian geopolitical experts have welcomed the ceasefire agreement and regard it as a major diplomatic achievement, with Malaysia leading the peace talks.
"The truce comes as a welcome diplomatic breakthrough and demonstrates the mutual desire to see regional peace and stability between both governments," a Cambodian political economist and columnist, Dr Darin Duch, told Bernama Wednesday.
"It's a complicated situation, to be sure, but momentum in diplomacy should not be ignored. Recognition of the ceasefire opens a path for additional discussions and confidence-building.
"There are still structural issues to be addressed, but I am hopeful that ongoing dialogue and, as part of this, international legal tools, regional dialogue between the warring parties will be instrumental in addressing these," said Darin.
The ceasefire occurred at a crucial juncture. When the armed conflict between the two countries broke out, border activities came to a grinding halt, which restricted crossings and led to social and economic turmoil. Tourism was impacted, and workers who crossed the border for trade, work, study, medical treatment, or social visits faced hardship.
Darin said that ASEAN's role in brokering negotiations between Cambodia and Thailand has proven that regional diplomacy can work when its members are committed.
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