Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to strengthen coordination along their shared border through new mechanisms designed to prevent clashes, enhance communication and tackle cross-border challenges, according to the outcomes released after an Extraordinary Regional Border Committee (RBC) Meeting, hosted by Cambodia today , August 25.
The Cambodian delegation was led by Lieutenant General Ek Sam Aun, commander of the 5th Military Region, while the Thai side was headed by Vice Admiral Apichat Sapprasert, commander of the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defence Command.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the agreement made earlier this month by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, during a regional dialogue hosted in Putrajaya, Malaysia.
During today’s meeting, the two nations agreed to establish a Coordinating Group (CG) to ensure regular communication at all levels — from military commanders to operational units.
“Both sides agreed in principle to establish a CG to enhance communication at all levels, including between commanders, border liaison working groups, standing forces at the border area and other operational units, with the aim of resolving all issues peacefully and avoiding clashes,” said a statement from the Cambodian Ministry of National Defence.
They also discussed the possibility of creating a Township Border Committee (TBC), which would bring together state and private institutions to deepen cooperation.
“In the interim, prior to the establishment of the CG and TBC, local task force commanders from both sides will meet weekly, or as appropriate, to resolve issues arising within their respective areas of responsibility,” said the ministry.
Both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to humanitarian demining, agreeing to refer the matter to the upcoming General Border Committee (GBC) Meeting, which is expected to take place soon.
Beyond border security, Cambodia and Thailand pledged closer cooperation in combating transnational crimes, including online scams, drug and human trafficking, weapons smuggling and other cross-border criminal activities.
These issues will also be reviewed under the mandate of the GBC.
The meeting concluded with both delegations emphasising their determination to restore normalcy along the border and promote peace, stability and prosperity. They also agreed that the next RBC Meeting will be held within one month, with Thailand set to host.
