ASEAN Chief Urges Stronger Dialogue Between Thailand and Cambodia

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has urged Thailand and Cambodia to strengthen their diplomatic engagement to resolve ongoing conflicts. Speaking on Wednesday during a meeting with regional media as part of the 10th Asean Media Forum in Manila, Mr Kao highlighted the impact of the 2025 border clashes. "I think we have to make all efforts because what happened in 2025 had an impact on the people on both sides of the border, and people in both countries have been displaced," Mr Kao stated. He noted that while a ceasefire remains in place, issues persist, emphasizing that continued engagement is essential for lasting peace and stability. "I hope, as the secretary-general of Asean, that both countries will continue to uphold the Asean spirit of solidarity and unity. Cambodia and Thailand are permanent neighbouring countries, and there remains ample space to intensify all diplomatic efforts," he added. Mr Kao recalled past efforts to resolve the conflict, including the Putrajaya Peace Accord reached in July 2025 during Malaysia's Asean chairship, supported by US President Donald Trump. An immediate and unconditional ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia was reached on July 28, 2025, in Putrajaya, Malaysia, halting days of deadly border clashes through mediation by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. He also mentioned the Special Asean Ministers' Meeting held on Dec 22, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where Thai and Cambodian military authorities agreed to discuss ceasefire arrangements before the official ceasefire took effect on Dec 27, 2025.