PHNOM PENH, Aug 8 — Asean's role in promoting regional stability was underscored by its recent intervention in the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute, which had resulted in a brief armed confrontation.
Just days ahead of the 58th anniversary of the regional grouping, Asean, led by Malaysia as the rotating chair, successfully defused tensions that have long made the Cambodia-Thailand border a flashpoint for conflict.
Cambodia's International Relations Institute director-general Kin Phea said that for over five decades, Asean has fostered dialogue, built trust, and promoted peaceful solutions to disputes, embodying the spirit of unity in diversity.
“This year, under Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship, that spirit was powerfully demonstrated when Prime Minister (Datuk Seri) Anwar Ibrahim played a decisive role in brokering the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand.
“His principled diplomacy not only prevented further escalation but also reinforced Asean's relevance as a trusted and effective platform for conflict resolution,” he told Bernama.
Both countries agreed to a ceasefire that was brokered by Anwar on July 28, ending the five-day conflict that destroyed the peace in the northern part of Cambodia.
Cambodia and Thailand have been engaged in a protracted dispute over border areas that have been poorly defined since 1907, when the French colonial authorities created a map.
Both nations — part of the 10-member bloc — have enjoyed cordial relations despite the uneasiness over the territorial claims.
But the recent armed flare-up was considered the worst in recent years, according to observers.
Over 170,000 Cambodians were displaced in northern provinces as military actions unfolded after simmering tensions since late May.
A landmark General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, hosted by Malaysia, ended in Kuala Lumpur yesterday on a positive note, after both governments agreed to several ceasefire conditions to avoid further escalation of the conflict.
“Prime Minister Anwar's personal commitment to peace and regional stability has been instrumental in restoring dialogue and preventing further escalation. His tireless efforts reflect Malaysia’s longstanding dedication to Asean unity and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
“If totally successful, this mediation will stand as a testament to Asean's critical role in safeguarding peace, strengthening mutual respect and ensuring that Southeast Asia remains a region of stability and cooperation.
“Cambodia remains fully committed to honouring and sincerely implementing the ceasefire and the outcomes of the GBC’s meeting, held in Kuala Lumpur under Malaysia’s auspices,” said Kin.
