US thanks Malaysia for mediating Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire
Marco Rubio thanks Malaysian counterpart for role in deescalating tensions, says State Department
WASHINGTON
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a call Wednesday with Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan to express Washington’s appreciation for Kuala Lumpur’s role in facilitating a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, according to a State Department statement.
Rubio thanked Malaysia for its efforts in deescalating tensions about a recent border dispute between the two Southeast Asian neighbors, which led to a ceasefire agreement, said the statement.
“The United States supports future discussions on ceasefire implementation in order to ensure peace and stability between Thailand and Cambodia,” it said.
He also reiterated President Donald Trump’s support for peace in the region and emphasized the significance of maintaining the ceasefire, it added.
The Southeast Asian neighbors have a border dispute along Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province and Thailand's northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani, with renewed tensions since May 28, when a Cambodian soldier was killed.
Thailand and Cambodia saw ties spiral in recent weeks as tensions escalated to cross-border airstrikes and rocket fire since last Thursday, which have killed many, including soldiers.
Thousands have been displaced due to the clashes.
