Asian leaders call for calm over deadly Cambodia-Thailand border clashes
SOUTH-EAST ASIA: Thailand launched air strikes on Cambodian military targets on July 24 as Cambodia fired rockets and artillery, killing at least 11 civilians, in a dramatic escalation of a long-running border row between the two neighbours.
The developments have caused concern among countries in Asia, with leaders urging calm and swift de-escalation.
Here are the reactions.
Malaysia
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has sent messages to the prime ministers of Cambodia and Thailand, hoping to speak with them personally on July 24, reported the New Straits Times. Malaysia currently holds the chairmanship of Asean.
'The situation is worrying. They are key members of Asean and close neighbours to Malaysia… At the very least, we hope they will de-escalate tensions and return to the negotiating table,' he said.
'Efforts have been made, but I still firmly believe that peace is the only option.'
Philippines
The Department of Foreign Affairs remained hopeful that Cambodia and Thailand could resolve the issue in accordance with international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
'We urge both parties to extend due consideration and care to innocent civilians who may be affected by the ongoing conflict,' it said.
'The Philippines does not take any position on this dispute but underscores the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring the de-escalation of the situation.'
Manila said it is continually monitoring the situation and remains ready to extend all possible assistance to Filipinos living in these two countries if necessary.
To date, no Filipino nationals have been reported to be affected by the conflict, it added.
China
Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said China is deeply concerned over the current developments and hopes both sides can properly resolve issues through dialogue and consultations.
'Good neighbourliness and properly handling differences are in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of both sides,' he said.
Guo said China would adopt a 'fair and impartial position' in the clashes.
Beijing 'has and will continue to in its own way do its best to promote peace and dialogue, and play a constructive role in promoting the easing and cooling down of the situation', he added.
Japan
Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya said Japan has been working to encourage both Cambodia and Thailand to de-escalate the situation.
'A sound relationship between Cambodia and Thailand is extremely important for peace and stability in the region,' he said.
'Japan urges both Cambodia and Thailand to exercise maximum restraint and strongly hopes that the tension between the two countries will be eased peacefully through dialogue.'
Unicef
The United Nations Children's Fund's regional director for East Asia and the Pacific, Ms June Kunugi, called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and protect children.
'Children must be protected at all times and their safety and well-being must be prioritised while schools must remain safe spaces for learning,' she said. - Agencies/The Straits Times-Asia News Network
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