BANGKOK, SEATIZENS – Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to withdraw their troops from the recent border clash site. They will return to their positions used before 2024. Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, announced this progress.During a Sunday press conference, Phumtham said, “Both sides discussed and agreed to withdraw troops to their 2024 positions.” Senior officials are now inspecting the area to confirm the troop withdrawal.
He praised Cambodia and its military for their cooperation. “They participated positively in negotiations, helping us resolve the situation peacefully for the benefit of both countries,” he added. Media in Thailand published images showing Cambodian soldiers leaving their positions. Trenches used in the clashes have been dismantled, signaling de-escalation.
Background of Tensions
Thailand’s Royal Army earlier said Cambodia invited Thailand for talks. During negotiations, Cambodia agreed to move troops back to the agreed positions in 2024. Thailand sees this as a step toward preparing for the upcoming Border Demarcation Committee meeting on June 14, 2025. The goal is to find sustainable solutions for the border.
Both countries also plan to use the Local Border Committee as a forum for ongoing discussions. Thai authorities support this approach to resolve regional issues. On June 7, Thailand’s military ordered border control points to shift to military control. They cited provocations from Cambodia as the reason. Thailand’s military intelligence reported that Cambodia increased its troop numbers at the border.
On May 28, a Cambodian soldier died in a clash along the disputed border. Both nations accused each other of provoking the conflict in the neutral zone. On June 3, Thai military officials claimed Cambodian forces approached the border with heavy weapons. Cambodia responded by sharing photos and videos of a Thai drone it claimed to have shot down. Thailand denied owning such a drone and argued that surveillance was unnecessary since Cambodia’s social media provided sufficient information.
Ongoing Dispute but Open Borders
Despite ongoing clashes and negotiations, the border dispute remains unresolved. Both sides continue to talk while maintaining their positions.
Importantly, all border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia stay open. People and goods can still move freely, keeping daily life and trade normal.
(Seatizens)
