Putrajaya, Malaysia – Thailand and Cambodia have officially signed a 13-point ceasefire agreement following three days of intense negotiations. The accord, reached on July 28, 2025, aims to halt the deadly border clashes that have claimed dozens of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians in recent weeks. The agreement came into effect at midnight on Monday, July 28, marking a significant step towards de-escalation.
The comprehensive agreement includes critical provisions such as the suspension of troop reinforcements and movements, a complete and unconditional ceasefire, and protective measures for civilians. It also outlines assistance for the return of displaced persons to their homes.
"The agreement was signed after three days of negotiations and contains 13 points, including: suspension of reinforcements and troop movements; complete and unconditional ceasefire; protective measures for civilians; assistance in the return of displaced persons, and others," stated a tweet from Visegrád 24, detailing the accord.
The ceasefire follows a recent escalation of a long-standing border dispute, which flared into five days of intense fighting in late July. The conflict resulted in the deaths of at least 33 to 43 people, including both military personnel and civilians, and forced nearly 300,000 individuals to flee their homes. This period marked the worst violence between the two Southeast Asian nations in over a decade.
The breakthrough in negotiations was largely facilitated by Malaysian Prime Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who brokered the talks in Putrajaya. Crucially, the agreement was also influenced by direct pressure from US President Donald Trump, who warned both countries of impending 36% trade tariffs set to take effect from August 1st if hostilities continued. China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) also played supportive roles in encouraging a peaceful resolution.
Despite the signing, the truce has faced initial challenges, with both sides accusing the other of minor violations in the days immediately following. Thailand reported small arms fire, while Cambodia accused Thailand of installing barbed wire in disputed areas, though both denied significant breaches. Military commanders met on July 29, and a General Border Committee meeting was held on August 4 in Cambodia to discuss implementation. As of August 7, officials continue to meet to solidify the fragile truce and address lingering mistrust, including Cambodia's demand for the release of 18 captured soldiers.
Leaders from both nations expressed hope for a lasting peace. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized the need to rebuild trust and confidence between the two countries, allowing displaced villagers to safely return. The focus now shifts to the sustained implementation of the 13-point agreement and the long-term resolution of the underlying border issues.