Malaysia Hosts High-Level Peace Talks Between Thailand and Cambodia in Putrajaya
PUTRAJAYA, July 28 — A special trilateral meeting between the leaders of Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia commenced at 3.15pm today at Kompleks Seri Perdana, aimed at easing mounting border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.
Chaired by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his capacity as ASEAN Chair, the closed-door session is being attended by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
The urgent talks were initiated following requests from Bangkok and Phnom Penh for Malaysia to mediate amid rising concerns over increased military activity along their shared border. Malaysia is serving as both facilitator and official witness to the discussions.
In a significant show of international support, United States Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan and Chinese Ambassador Ouyang Yujing are also present, acting as co-facilitators for the peace dialogue. Both Washington and Beijing have publicly called for restraint and urged both sides to prioritise diplomacy.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Prime Minister Anwar said Malaysia was approached by both Thailand and Cambodia to help broker a peaceful resolution. An immediate ceasefire and de-escalation of military presence are expected to top the agenda.
“This is a responsibility that we do not take lightly. We were asked to assist, and we do so with honour and full commitment,” Anwar stated. “Thailand and Cambodia are not just our neighbours — they are our close friends. Within our capacity, we will do everything to facilitate a peaceful solution.”
Anwar also revealed that international observers, including teams from Malaysia and possibly other ASEAN members, will be on standby to monitor and support the peace process.
The outcomes of the talks are expected to be announced later this evening during a joint press conference. Observers hope the meeting will mark the beginning of sustained dialogue and trust-building between the two ASEAN nations.