At the Shangri-La Mactan hotel in Cebu, a significant meeting took place at 6 p.m. local time in the Philippines, where Thailand’s Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul participated in trilateral discussions with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The talks focused on the ongoing situation between Thailand and Cambodia. This meeting was organized under the initiative of the Philippines, which currently holds the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), according to Rachada Dhanadirek, spokesperson for the Thai Prime Minister’s Office.
Following the discussions, the leaders addressed the media in a press conference. The Philippine president, acting as ASEAN chair, spoke first, succeeded by the Cambodian prime minister, and then the Thai prime minister. Anutin expressed his gratitude towards President Marcos for facilitating the meeting, emphasizing its importance. He described his conversation with Prime Minister Hun Manet as both constructive and focused on future collaboration, noting the candid and meaningful nature of their dialogue.
The gathering represented a crucial moment for Thailand and Cambodia to jointly emphasize their dedication to dialogue and maintaining peace. The Thai prime minister highlighted the deep interconnectivity between the two neighboring countries, which share numerous ties spanning various aspects of their relations. He underscored the adverse impacts of conflict, which invariably results in losses and hardships for all involved, thereby accentuating the essential nature of peace.
In light of these discussions, the Thai leader expressed that it was an opportune moment for Thailand and Cambodia to envision a shared future and embark on a new chapter in their bilateral relations. Such progress, he noted, would necessitate a commitment to sincerity, good faith, and a mutual resolve to overcome existing challenges. The meeting served as a pivotal platform for the leaders to articulate their shared vision for peace and cooperation moving forward.