Kathmandu: Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to extend the temporary ceasefire that began last month following a deadly five-day conflict in their disputed border region. Defense officials from both nations signed a joint statement on Thursday to continue the agreement, aimed at preventing further violence.

Conflict Background
The clashes, sparked by a long-standing dispute over a border temple, left at least 43 people dead and displaced more than 300,000. The violence marked the worst fighting in the area in a decade. The truce was initially brokered last month through mediation by U.S. President Donald Trump, Chinese officials, and ASEAN Chair and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Key Terms of the Agreement

-Complete ceasefire: Both sides pledged to halt all use of weapons and avoid targeting civilians or non-military infrastructure.

-Military movement ban: Troop movements and patrols in the contested border zone are prohibited.

-Misinformation control: Both countries agreed to stop spreading false or inflammatory information to ease tensions.

-Future talks: A follow-up meeting will be held within one month.

Reactions and Caution
Cambodian Defense Minister T. Seyha described the extension as a “vital step” toward saving lives and rebuilding trust. Thailand’s Deputy Defense Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for cooperation and sincerity from both sides.

However, U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan, who observed the signing, warned that this was “only a first step” toward lasting peace, noting persistent distrust and tensions between the two countries.

The border dispute, dating back to an unclear demarcation from 1907, remains unresolved, with both sides hoping the extended truce will pave the way for a more permanent settlement.