Cambodian troops 'agree to withdraw'

Border closures, net curbs do the trick

- POST REPORTERS

Cambodian troops have agreed to withdraw from the disputed area and engage in negotiations with their Thai counterparts, following increased pressure from Thailand through the closure of border checkpoints and internet blackouts.

Maj Gen Winthai Suwaree spokesman for the Royal Thai Army, said the Cambodian side, led by the Commander of the 3rd Support Division, invited the Thai military, represented by the Commander of the Suranaree Task Force, to discuss the border encroachment issue in the disputed Chong Bok area of Ubon Ratchathani.

In the initial talks, both sides reached a key agreement: the Cambodian troops agreed to withdraw to their original positions, away from the clash site, deeper inside Cambodian territory — an area traditionally used by Cambodia as a military base.

Additionally, Cambodia agreed to fill in the trenches to restore the area to its natural state, following Thailand's proposal, aiming to reduce tensions and foster cooperation.

Both sides also agreed to use the local border committee mechanism as a channel to discuss sustainable management of the area going forward, he said.

The negotiation occurred after the Royal Thai Army ramped up restrictions at nine out of 16 checkpoints along the border with Cambodia, barring gamblers and large commercial trucks from crossing while ordering shorter opening hours at key crossings between the two countries.