BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the repatriation of 18 Cambodian soldiers to Cambodia following the completion of a 72-hour continuous ceasefire along the border. The transfer was agreed upon by Thailand and Cambodia at the third special meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC).
The ministry said the repatriation took place today (Dec 31) at 10 a.m., in line with provisions requiring the soldiers’ return once ceasefire conditions were met. The action also followed principles set out in a joint declaration signed by both countries in Kuala Lumpur in October.
During their time in Thai custody, the Cambodian soldiers were treated in accordance with international humanitarian law, including the 1949 Geneva Conventions. Thai authorities allowed the International Committee of the Red Cross to conduct regular visits and facilitated communication between the soldiers and their families.
Before their return, health examinations were carried out, and the soldiers were informed of their rights under the Geneva Conventions to ensure the process respected voluntary consent, safety, and human dignity. Representatives from the ICRC and the ASEAN Observer Team observed the repatriation, and families were notified in advance.
The Thai government expressed hope that the move would be met with reciprocal actions that contribute to continued peace and stability between the two countries. (NNT)
