Analysts Hail Cambodia-Thailand Border Talks as Step Toward Peace

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 24, 2025) — Cambodian analysts have welcomed the outcome of the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting between Cambodia and Thailand as a meaningful step toward lasting peace and cooperation along their shared border, ahead of a possible peace accord expected to be signed in Malaysia.

The 2nd Special Cambodia–Thailand GBC Meeting was held Oct. 23 in Kuala Lumpur and co-chaired by Cambodian Defense Minister Gen. Tea Seiha and Thai Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Narkphanit. The session was observed by representatives from Malaysia, the United States, and members of the Interim Observer Teams from both countries.

The two sides endorsed an action plan for the removal of heavy and destructive weapons along the border and approved terms of reference for establishing an ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) to monitor implementation.

They also agreed on standard operating procedures for a joint task force on humanitarian demining and a joint action plan to combat transnational crimes, including online scams and human trafficking.

Political analyst Yang Peou called the outcome “a good step toward peace,” especially ahead of the expected peace agreement to be witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

“The withdrawal of heavy weapons by both sides is an important move to reduce tensions,” Peou said. “The ASEAN Observer Team can monitor implementation to ensure both countries fully comply with the peace terms.”

Peou also credited Trump and Anwar for facilitating dialogue. “President Trump did not pressure either side to accept specific points, but rather encouraged both to end the long-standing conflict and restore peace,” he said.

Chhot Bunthong, a professor of philosophy, said the AOT would be key to ensuring both countries implement the agreement in good faith. Without it, he warned, “the situation along the border could remain stagnant.”

On transnational crime, Bunthong emphasized the need for joint action. “Both sides must work together to tackle this serious problem,” he said, adding that Thailand should also take responsibility for addressing such crimes within its own territory.
Cambodia and Thailand are expected to continue discussions to identify a pilot area for humanitarian demining within one week of the GBC meeting.