Thailand and Cambodia: A Step Towards Peace?

Thailand's defence minister is set to join talks with Cambodia this weekend to halt the ongoing fighting between the two Southeast Asian neighbors. The clashes, which have persisted for weeks, are not a new issue for the two countries.

A History of Broken Agreements

In July, a deal was brokered with the help of former U.S. President Donald Trump, but it quickly collapsed. Now, both sides are negotiating again. The Thai prime minister has stated that if the defence ministers reach an agreement, a new deal will be signed, ensuring neither side threatens or attacks the other.

International Involvement

The conflict has drawn the attention of other nations, including Malaysia and China. Malaysia's prime minister and China's special envoy have engaged in discussions with both Thailand and Cambodia. However, despite these efforts, the fighting continues.

Escalating Violence

The renewed conflict began in early December, resulting in at least 98 deaths and displacing over half a million people. The violence has spread from the forests near Laos to coastal areas.

The Core Issue: A Disputed Border

Thailand and Cambodia have long disputed their 817-kilometer border, with disagreements over land ownership affecting people's lives and homes.

Hopes for Lasting Peace

The Thai prime minister expresses hope that this round of negotiations will be the final one, allowing peace to return and displaced individuals to go home. However, whether this time will be different remains uncertain.