KUALA LUMPUR — ASEAN has urged Thailand and Cambodia to exercise maximum restraint and immediately halt fighting along their border as both countries prepare for a December 24 General Border Committee meeting to formalise ceasefire arrangements.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said ASEAN stressed the importance of urgent diplomatic engagement, restoration of trust and strict adherence to agreements previously signed, including the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement.
ASEAN also called for military de-escalation along the border with monitoring by the ASEAN Observer Team and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding regional peace and stability.
The bloc voiced serious concern over heavy casualties, destruction of public facilities and the displacement of civilians, urging both governments to ensure affected residents can safely return to their homes.
Recent clashes reportedly saw the deployment of tanks, drones and artillery fire, leading to fatalities in both countries. The dispute is rooted in long-standing territorial disagreements along an 800-kilometre border and contested ancient heritage sites.
