Thailand and Cambodia have yet to discuss reopening border checkpoints, though both sides are cautiously considering restoring diplomatic ties by returning charges d'affaires.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul described a trilateral meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Thursday evening as an important step towards rebuilding trust after prolonged border tensions.
The talks, held at the Shangri-La Mactan Cebu on the sidelines of the Asean summit, were facilitated by the Philippines in its role as Asean chair to maintain a constructive atmosphere during regional meetings.
Mr Anutin later spoke to the media, saying that both governments reaffirmed their commitment to peace while protecting national sovereignty and the interests of their citizens. He noted that no violence had been reported along the Thai-Cambodian border for more than five months following joint demining operations.
Thailand also formally informed Cambodia of its decision to cancel the 2001 memorandum of understanding on overlapping maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand, known as MoU 44, while both countries agreed to continue discussions under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or Unclos.
However, Mr Anutin stressed that several contentious issues with Cambodia remained unresolved.
"Both countries have not discussed reopening checkpoints, territorial claims or accusations over encroachment. These matters must first be handled at the operational level," he said, referring to future talks between foreign ministers and bilateral border committees.
Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow described the talks as frank and constructive, adding that both governments had agreed to avoid public accusations and "verbal wars" that could undermine dialogue.
He stated that both countries had agreed to resume direct communication through diplomatic channels and people-to-people exchanges under the Thailand-Cambodia Friendship Association.
Mr Sihasak added that he and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn had been tasked with holding talks soon to establish confidence-building measures before broader cooperation frameworks could resume.
"One important issue is restoring direct communication, including returning charges d'affaires to their respective embassies. However, there are still several procedures that need to be completed," he said.
Regarding land boundary disputes, Mr Sihasak stated that preparatory discussions should take place before the Thailand-Cambodia Joint Boundary Commission meeting.
He insisted Thailand was not avoiding negotiations, but discussions required clear direction and realistic expectations because some issues could be resolved quickly while others would take time.
