US welcomes Cambodia–Thailand ceasefire efforts, backs peace accord implementation

On January 1, the United States welcomed what it described as resolute efforts by Cambodia and Thailand to uphold a ceasefire agreed on December 27, saying the steps demonstrated both governments’ commitment to lasting peace.

“The United States welcomes the resolute efforts of the Cambodian and Thai governments to uphold the December 27 ceasefire agreement,” the State Department said in a statement issued by Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott.

Washington said the move showed both countries’ commitment to peace through the implementation of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords.

The United States also welcomed Thailand’s release of 18 Cambodian soldiers, calling it “a positive step towards rebuilding neighborly relations and trust.”

“The United States stands ready to support the Cambodian and Thai governments as they resume the critical implementation measures agreed to in the October 26 Joint Declaration,” Pigott said.

The clashes, which lasted 20 days in December, killed at least 101 ‍people and ⁠displaced more than half a million on both sides. The fighting included fighter jet sorties, exchanges of rocket fire and artillery barrages.

By Aghakazim Guliyev