Thailand's acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet are scheduled to meet in Malaysia on 28/7 to discuss the ongoing border conflict. Fighting between Cambodian and Thai forces erupted on 24/7, resulting in at least 33 deaths and displacing over 200,000 people on both sides.

Ahead of the talks in Kuala Lumpur, Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Phumtham as saying that Bangkok is ready for a ceasefire agreement, but emphasized the need for "sincerity" from Phnom Penh.

Phumtham had previously set conditions for ceasefire negotiations, including Cambodia's "commitment to not violate the agreement and readiness for dialogue" to end the conflict. He also demanded the withdrawal of troops and long-range weapons from the border to a safe distance from Thai civilians.

He accused Phnom Penh of previously proposing ceasefires and then breaking them. The acting prime minister said Thai soldiers will continue to protect the country until the threat against civilians is neutralized.

Earlier, Hun Manet said Cambodia agreed with former US president Donald Trump's proposal for an "immediate and unconditional ceasefire" with Thailand. Trump spoke with the leaders of both countries on 26/7 to push for a ceasefire.

During an emergency consultation at the United Nations Security Council on 25/7, the Cambodian delegation, led by ambassador Chhea Keo, also called for an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire, peaceful resolution of border disputes, maximum restraint, and a diplomatic solution.

Thailand's acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai speaks to the media on 3/7 in Bangkok. Photo: AFP

Thailand's acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai speaks to the media on 3/7 in Bangkok. Photo: AFP

Malaysian foreign minister Mohamad Hasan said on 27/7 that Thailand and Cambodia had placed their trust in Malaysia and requested the country to mediate. Malaysia currently holds the 2025 ASEAN chairmanship.

Jirayu Huangsap, spokesperson for the Thai prime minister's office, announced the delegation traveling to Malaysia would include Phumtham, foreign minister Maris Sangiampongsa, deputy defense minister Natthapon Nakpanich, and chief of staff Prommin Lertsuridej. Jirayu will also participate as a member of the Special Operations Center for the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Response (SOC-TCBSM).

Cambodia has not yet announced its delegation. The meetings will take place at Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim's office in Kuala Lumpur.

The two sides will focus on "exploring paths towards restoring peace," according to Jirayu. The Thai delegation will reaffirm its "firm stance on protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Thailand deploys armored vehicles to Buri Ram province on 25/7. Photo: AFP

Thailand deploys armored vehicles to Buri Ram province on 25/7. Photo: AFP

Jirayu stated Thailand will use a 1:50,000 scale map, contrary to media rumors that Bangkok might concede to Phnom Penh's proposal to use a 1:200,000 scale map for the border area.

Nikorndej Balankura, spokesperson for the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized Bangkok's desire for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

"However, before we reach that point, Cambodia needs to demonstrate sincere goodwill and take concrete actions to build trust with Thailand," Nikorndej said.

Cambodia has not commented on this information.

In recent days, Thailand and Cambodia have accused each other of using heavy weapons in cross-border attacks, causing civilian casualties and property damage. This is the most serious clash between the two neighbors in over a decade.

Thanh Danh (Thai PBS, Nation, Guardian)