In a significant diplomatic engagement held at the Shangri-La Mactan hotel in Cebu, Philippines, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of Thailand participated in trilateral discussions with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The focus of their meeting was the ongoing situation between Thailand and Cambodia. This gathering was a direct result of the initiative taken by the Philippines, which currently presides as the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as explained by Rachada Dhanadirek, spokesperson for the Thai Prime Minister’s Office.
Following the discussions, the leaders addressed the press in a joint conference. President Marcos, as the ASEAN chair, was the first to speak, followed by Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia, and concluding with Prime Minister Anutin. During his remarks, Anutin expressed gratitude to President Marcos for convening the meeting, emphasizing its significance. He described the dialogue with his Cambodian counterpart as constructive and forward-looking, highlighting the candid and meaningful nature of their exchange.
This meeting served as a critical platform for reaffirming the commitment of both nations to engage in dialogue and uphold peace. Prime Minister Anutin underscored the importance of such collaborative efforts, noting that Thailand and Cambodia share extensive ties as neighboring countries. He pointed out that conflicts invariably lead to losses and difficulties for all involved parties, underscoring the essential value of maintaining peace.
In his statements, Anutin called for a renewed approach, suggesting that it was time for both countries to envision a shared future and embark on a new chapter in their bilateral relations. He emphasized that achieving this would require sincerity, mutual goodwill, and a collective resolve to overcome existing challenges. The meeting marked a pivotal moment for both nations to commit to these principles and work towards a harmonious coexistence.