Mohamad discusses Cambodia-Thailand tensions with US’ Rubio

WASHINGTON, July 31 — Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and US State Secretary Marco Rubio discussed tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said yesterday.

“State Secretary Marco Rubio spoke with Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to thank the Malaysian government for its role in de-escalating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia and successfully facilitating a ceasefire agreement over the ongoing border dispute,” Bruce said in a statement, reported Sputnik/RIA Novosti.

Rubio reiterated the US’ desire to reach peace and a ceasefire, she added.

“The United States supports future discussions on ceasefire implementation in order to ensure peace and stability between Thailand and Cambodia,” Bruce said.

The escalation of a border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand turned into an armed confrontation on July 24. After clashes along the border, both sides exchanged artillery fire, with Cambodia using Grad multiple rocket launcher systems, including against civilian targets in Thailand, while Thailand carried out an airstrike on Cambodian military positions. Both sides reported deaths, including that of civilians.

On July 27, US President Donald Trump said Washington cannot negotiate tariffs with countries in armed conflict and urged Cambodia and Thailand to engage in ceasefire talks.

On Monday, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to establish a truce starting at midnight. On Tuesday, Thai acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai said Cambodia was systematically violating the ceasefire along the border. The Cambodian Defence Ministry denies the allegations.

— Bernama