Tensions cool on border

Plaudits for Thai return of soldiers

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA

Major powers, diplomatic missions and humanitarian organisations have commended Thailand for freeing 18 Cambodian soldiers and reinforcing momentum behind the fragile ceasefire between the two countries.

The United States welcomed the release, crediting both Bangkok and Phnom Penh for their "determined effort" to honour the ceasefire agreement and align with the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords, signed in late October.

US State Department deputy spokesman Tommy Pigott said Washington viewed the development as constructive and helping build confidence.

"We welcome Thailand's release of the 18 Cambodian soldiers as a positive step towards rebuilding neighbourly relations and trust.

"The United States stands ready to support the Cambodian and Thai governments as they resume the critical implementation measures agreed to in the Oct 26 Joint Declaration," he said.

Australia shared a similar stance, saying the soldiers' return was a positive development that would help rebuild trust after months of confrontation.