Attention focuses on the ASEAN foreign ministers' special meeting addressing the Thai-Cambodian border issue. Foreign Minister Sihasak reaffirmed three conditions, urging Cambodia to cease fire first. He emphasized Thailand's aspiration for peace, which must be accompanied by public safety.
On 22 Dec 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Malaysia time, one hour ahead of Thailand, Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew arrived at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend the ASEAN foreign ministers' special meeting to discuss the Thai-Cambodian situation. The Thai delegation included Gen. Natthapong Praokaew, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, representing the military.
The meeting followed ASEAN's formal protocol, starting at 12:00 p.m. Malaysia time, with a group photo of participants from 11 member countries, except Myanmar, which joined via videoconference. Vietnam sent a senior official to represent its foreign minister.
Subsequently, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Mohamad Hassan, as ASEAN chair, opened the meeting. The AOT observers reported on their recent duties before members expressed their positions. The speaking order began alphabetically with the disputing countries: Cambodia spoke first, followed by Thailand and the Philippines, the incoming ASEAN chair. Then, other ASEAN members spoke alphabetically until the meeting closed after approximately 1.5 hours, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. No official statement or outcome was expected, but a Malaysian chair's remark might be issued.
Thus, the key focus today is on Cambodia's response to Thailand's proposals. Thailand reiterated its stance on the recent situation, emphasizing three main principles:
1. Cambodia must declare a ceasefire first.
2. The ceasefire must be genuine and continuous, monitored by observers.
3. Cambodia must sincerely and actively cooperate in clearing landmines.
For Thailand, the decision to cease fire depends on military assessment, adhering to the principle of prioritizing national interest, defending sovereignty and territorial integrity. Thailand desires peace, but it must be accompanied by security and safety for its people and be sustainable.
Looking back at the fighting from 24–28 July, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a ceasefire by midnight on 28 July. Subsequently, both countries signed the Thai-Cambodian Peace Declaration on 26 October during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
However, conflict reignited on 7 December, leading to intense fighting from early 8 December onward. Counting up to today, the clashes have lasted 14 days.