Japan has expressed its opposition to escalating actions and urged Thailand and Cambodia to observe the ceasefire agreement, exercise maximum restraint and seek a peaceful resolution through dialogue, following the spirit of the Joint Declaration of October 26.
Japanese foreign ministry press secretary Kitamura Toshihiro explained Japanese concerns in a statement released this afternoon, December 8, as tensions mount with the Thai military expanding military action from Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces to Banteay Meanchey.
“The Government of Japan expresses deep concern over the situation where tensions between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Kingdom of Thailand are growing again following successive military measures, despite the October 26 signing of a Joint Declaration on the border conflict,” Kitamura said in the statement.
He noted that improved relations between Cambodia and Thailand are indispensable for the stability and development of the entire region.
“The Government of Japan is paying close attention to the development between the two countries with concern and opposes any actions that could escalate the situation,” he added.
Japan will continue to make efforts, in coordination with relevant countries, including the US and Malaysia, the ASEAN chair, to promote de-escalation of the situation.
