French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, has reiterated that France is prepared to grant access to both Cambodia and Thailand to the archives in its possession related to the border demarcation.
The commitment was restated during Barrot’s February 25 meeting with his Cambodian counterpart Prak Sokhonn during the latter’s working trip to Europe and the UN.
The French foreign ministry announced on February 26 that Barrot had reaffirmed France’s commitment to regional stability and emphasised the importance of the implementation of the December 27 ceasefire agreement, which has held since it came into effect.
Barrot said political dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia should continue, as it is necessary to enable a peaceful and lasting resolution of the border dispute, in compliance with international law and their bilateral commitments.
“France supports ASEAN’s efforts in this regard and is in contact with both partners, with complete impartiality. It reiterates its availability to facilitate both parties’ access to the archives in its possession related to the border demarcation,” said the ministry.
France has repeatedly expressed readiness to supply Cambodia or Thailand with archived documents, in an effort to find a peaceful solution to the border conflict.
Early this month, Prime Minister Hun Manet wrote to French President Emmanuel Macron, requesting France’s assistance in suppling historic documents, a legacy of the French Protectorate era.
Barrot and Sokhonn also discussed strengthening bilateral relations, with Macron slated to visit Cambodia in November, when Cambodia will host the 20th Francophonie Summit (OIF).
“The ministers discussed the strengthening of their economic relations, especially in the energy, medical and agri-food sectors. They also discussed the heritage partnership around the Angkor site. The minister mentioned our shared desire to combat online fraud centres,” added the ministry.
