KUALA LUMPUR: The peace document between Thailand and Cambodia "will change things on the ground," says Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.
He expressed confidence that both sides are committed to turning their pledges into peace.
"Yes, it will, it will (change things around).
"And I think it's already starting to change," Sihasak told reporters at a press conference following the signing of the Joint Declaration between Thailand and Cambodia at the sidelines of the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits here on Sunday (Oct 26).
Sihasak said regional military commanders from both countries had already met to discuss next steps and would meet again soon.
"At the leadership level, we have made it known that we will implement what has been agreed.
"We are looking ahead to restoring our ties — and not only that, but making our ties even better."
The declaration, also known as the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, was signed between Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his Cambodian counterpart, Prime Minister Hun Manet, in the presence of US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Dubbed as the "pathway for peace" by Sihasak, it outlines a framework for de-escalating tensions and promoting lasting peace along the shared border.
Sihasak described the deal as a “significant milestone”, highlighting that it includes commitments to withdraw heavy weaponry, carry out demining operations and combat illegal activities such as scam networks and cross-border encroachments.
He said the agreement reflected both countries' “genuine commitment” to peaceful cooperation, adding that Malaysia and the United States had played a facilitating role rather than mediating directly.
Sihasak also confirmed that Thailand was prepared to release 18 detained Cambodian soldiers once the withdrawal of heavy weapons begin,s and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was invited to observe the process.
“These steps will build confidence on both sides and lay the foundation for lasting peace,” he said, adding that implementation would be monitored by the Asean Observatory.
The signing comes after months of tension along the Thai-Cambodian border, and marks the most concrete step yet toward restoring normal relations between the two neighbours.
