Thailand vows not to accept disadvantage ahead of ASEAN Cambodia talks

Thailand has asserted it will not enter Monday’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers’ meeting from a position of disadvantage, setting a firm tone for discussions on the ongoing border conflict with Cambodia. The meeting, to be held in Malaysia, will address recent clashes that have derailed a previous peace agreement and resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides.

Thailand’s Stance and Accusations

Ahead of the talks, Thailand’s Foreign Ministry deputy spokesperson, Maratee Nalita Andamo, stated that Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow would lead the delegation. She emphasized Thailand’s desire for peace while accusing Cambodia of a lack of sincerity. The Thai military has also condemned what it calls Cambodia’s use of violence against civilian targets, alleging rocket attacks on homes and a hospital.

Cambodia’s Counterclaims and Chinese Diplomacy

Cambodia has issued its own allegations, reporting that Thai F-16 jets bombed its territory, destroying a key border bridge and striking civilian areas including a primary school. As diplomatic efforts intensify, China’s Special Envoy for Asian Affairs, Deng Xijun, visited Phnom Penh on Friday, meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet. Both sides emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and peaceful dialogue, with China pledging to play a constructive role in facilitating talks.

Mounting Human Cost and Failed Agreements

The human toll of the conflict continues to rise. Thai authorities report 21 soldiers and one civilian killed, with 33 other civilian deaths attributed to indirect effects of the fighting. Cambodia’s Interior Ministry states 18 of its civilians have been killed and 78 injured. The violence persists despite a U.S.-brokered peace agreement signed in Kuala Lumpur in October, which was suspended following a landmine incident that injured Thai soldiers. This conflict is the latest flare-up in a long-running border dispute between the two Southeast Asian nations.