SEREMBAN: Malaysia is keen to assist in establishing an Asean Monitoring Team along the disputed Cambodia-Thailand border to help ensure a permanent ceasefire, says Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (pic).
He said a General Border Committee, comprising officials from both nations, began discussions yesterday in Kuala Lumpur to work towards de-escalating tensions along the border.
“The technical committee will draw up the Terms of Reference (TOR), so that a permanent ceasefire along their border can be realised,” Mohamad said, adding that the TOR would outline the framework for creating a monitoring team to maintain peace and stability in the region.
“The arrival of ministers from both countries in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 7 will mark a significant milestone. We anticipate the TOR’s finalisation by then.
“We want to restore normalcy along the border so that the people on both sides can return to peaceful daily lives,” he said, adding that the accord would also pave the way for the reopening of the border.
The effort follows a special meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya on July 28, during which Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
At that meeting, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai also agreed to convene a General Border Committee meeting as part of the agreement, following deadly clashes between the two nations.
Mohamad expressed optimism that a lasting agreement could be reached, noting that both parties were largely supportive of the draft proposals submitted by Malaysia.
“There haven’t been many objections. Both sides have, however, made some additions to better suit their needs,” he said.
He also revealed that the Malaysian Armed Forces chief has engaged in discussions with his counterparts from both countries to help move the process forward.
“This will further support the formation of an Asean Monitoring Team,” he added.
