Thailand, Cambodia sign ceasefire agreement

Thailand and Cambodia have formally signed a ceasefire agreement along their shared border, bringing an end to weeks of intense fighting, the defense ministries of both countries confirmed in a joint statement on Saturday (December 27).

The 20-day conflict claimed the lives of more than 100 people on both sides and forced over 500,000 civilians to flee their homes and seek shelter in safer areas.

This marks the most prolonged and severe military confrontation between the neighboring Southeast Asian nations in recent years. Under the agreement, the ceasefire is set to take effect at 12:00 local time on Saturday.

In a joint statement, Thai Defense Minister Nathaphon Nakphanit and Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Banh said troops currently deployed along the border will maintain their positions, and neither side will conduct new troop mobilizations or provocative military activities.

International media, including Al Jazeera, reported that the agreement followed high-level negotiations. During the conflict, Cambodia accused Thailand of indiscriminate bombing in border areas.

The prolonged border dispute has significantly affected Cambodia’s economy, severely disrupting tourism and cross-border trade, and causing widespread hardship for civilians. The ceasefire now offers hope for displaced populations to return home.

Analysts warn that the durability of the ceasefire will depend on future diplomatic efforts and a lasting resolution of the border dispute. Both countries’ military authorities have instructed forces to remain calm and strictly adhere to the terms of the agreement.