(TAP) - At the conclusion of a closed-door meeting of the United Nations Security Council on July 25 regarding the Cambodia – Thailand conflict, Cambodian Ambassador to the UN Keo Chhea called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Meanwhile, the Thai side argued that it was not the right time to move toward a ceasefire agreement.
Cambodia's statement to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) posted on the Facebook page Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the United Nations
The above content is clearly stated in Cambodia's statement to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) posted on the official Facebook page of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the United Nations in New York. Accordingly, Cambodian Ambassador to the UN Keo Chhea proposed an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and peaceful solutions to resolve the disagreement. In addition, the Security Council called on both sides to exercise maximum restraint and seek diplomatic solutions.
Video of Mr. Nikorndej Balankura's interview with CNA was shared by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (กระทรวงการต่างประเทศ Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand) Facebook page
In a related development, in an interview with a reporter from the US media channel (CNA) on July 25, Thai Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura expressed his opinion: “I think both sides, we are not ready to go to the extent of ceasefire yet, because for Thailand, we have to protect our sovereignty and national integrity. And up to now, the Cambodian side has not stopped the armed aggression, so unless and until there's a halt in aggression by the Cambodian side, I think it's premature to talk about any ceasefire.” However, Mr. Nikorndej Balankura reaffirmed Thailand's full commitment to a peaceful resolution through dialogue, bilateral mechanisms; through direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet's post at 5:45 p.m. on July 25 on his official Facebook page
On the same day, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet also spoke out to clarify the government’s position in response to inaccurate information circulated by international media. In a post published at 5:45 PM on July 25 on his official Facebook page, Prime Minister Hun Manet shared details of a recent conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister and current ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim. Hun Manet stated: “On the evening of July 24, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim requested a phone call to discuss the border conflict. He expressed his wish for both sides to immediately cease fire to facilitate negotiations. I affirm that Cambodia is ready to accept this proposal because we are not the one who initiated the conflict."
However, according to the Cambodian Prime Minister, Thailand initially agreed to a ceasefire starting at 12:00 AM on July 25 but later abruptly withdrew its commitment. He stated: “Unfortunately, just one hour later, Thailand announced that it would not implement the ceasefire. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has been clearly informed about this incident. Currently, the key to ending the conflict lies in the goodwill of Thailand”.
Announcement of the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense on the Facebook page “ក្រសួងការពារជាតិ”
In a recent development, on the Facebook page “ក្រសួងការពារជាតិ” updated at 6:59 on July 26, the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense issued a statement condemning the Thai army’s artillery attack at 5:02 a.m. on July 26 targeting Ekpheap village, Khom Tmada commune, Vel Veng district, Pursat province. The Cambodian side emphasized: “This blatant violation of Cambodia's sovereignty and territorial integrity is the most serious violation of international law, including the principles enshrined in the United Nations Constitution, and endangers the lives of innocent civilians and destroys peace and stability in the region”. Although affirming its commitment to resolving disputes by peaceful means, Cambodia declared that it would exercise its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter if it continued to be attacked.
Trang Thanh