IPOH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been lauded by Germany, France and the European Commission (EC) for mediating in the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius, Chancellor Friedrich Merz spoke with Anwar by phone on Monday (July 28) to express his appreciation.
ALSO READ: Cambodia and Thailand agree to ceasefire, says Anwar
"The task now is to further de-escalate the conflict," said Merz.
Merz also praised the good relations between Germany and Malaysia.
"As the current chair of Asean and bilaterally, Malaysia is an important partner for Germany in the region," he said, adding that both countries agreed to strengthen their economic relations.
Earlier on Monday, Anwar read a joint statement that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire following a special meeting in Putrajaya.
ALSO READ: Thai, Cambodian PMs welcome Malaysian-brokered peace
A French Embassy spokesman said France also commended Anwar's role in the matter and reaffirmed the country's commitment to the centrality of the region in resolving disputes.
“France welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire effective Monday evening... and the resumption of dialogue between Cambodia and Thailand following the meeting between the Prime Ministers of the two countries held in Malaysia on July 28.
"It calls for the effective implementation of the ceasefire.
"This significant progress must be the starting point for a lasting settlement of disputes through peaceful means, in accordance with international law.
ALSO READ: Asean leadership redefined: Anwar's quiet diplomacy halts deadly Thailand-Cambodia clash
"France reiterates its willingness to contribute to international efforts, particularly those of Asean, in this regard," he added.
EC vice-president Kaja Kallas, meanwhile, said on X: "The ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand is a major breakthrough after days of deadly clashes.
"It’s vital both countries implement it in good faith.
"I thank Malaysia as Asean chair for helping facilitate the negotiation process."
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia welcomes Cambodia and Thailand’s agreement to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
"We urge both parties to honour it and work towards a lasting and peaceful resolution.
"We appreciate PM Anwar and Malaysia’s leadership as Asean chair, and the role played by President Trump" she said in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Tuesday.
