BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand is confident that it will sign the “Thai-Cambodian Border Relations Declaration” during the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, scheduled for October 25–28, 2025. The agreement aims to address ongoing border issues, including the withdrawal of heavy weapons, landmine clearance, and the suppression of cross-border crime, according to Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew.
Minister Sihasak said that during the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on October 22, substantial progress was made on matters of priority to Thailand. Agreements were reached on steps to remove heavy weapons, clear mines, combat transnational crime, and repatriate Cambodian citizens who have entered Thai territory illegally.
He added that discussions will continue to identify specific areas of encroachment and determine further corrective measures. Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakpanich will sign a summary of the GBC meeting with his Cambodian counterpart on October 23, paving the way for the formal signing of the Thai-Cambodian Border Relations Declaration between the Prime Ministers of both countries at the ASEAN Summit. U.S. President Donald Trump, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and other ASEAN leaders are expected to witness the signing.
Minister Sihasak outlined that the declaration will include detailed plans and timelines for the withdrawal of heavy weapons, mine clearance, and the suppression of transnational crime.
Regarding encroachment issues in Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Sa Kaeo province, Minister Sihasak emphasized that the Joint Border Commission (JBC) will discuss the matters in detail to ensure clear solutions and continued cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia.
This initiative reflects Thailand’s commitment to maintaining border security, regional stability, and effective collaboration with neighboring countries on security and law enforcement challenges. (TNA)
