Cambodia wants “immediate ceasefire” with Thailand after two days deadly mutual attacks; India issues advisory

Malaysia has offered mediation between the two countries. Malaysia is the chairman of ASEAN (Association of South-East Asian Nations).

New Delhi: After two days deadly attacks between two neighboring countries - Cambodia and Thailand - over the border dispute, Cambodia now calls for "immediate ceasefire" with Thailand, reports Dynamite News correspondent.

The Cambodia's envoy to the United Nations said on Friday that he wants an "immediate ceasefire" with Thailand.

Border Disputes

The long-running border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia turned once again violent and heavy firing between the armies of the two countries for two days continued. At least 19 people have reportedly died and hundreds are injured so far.

After two days of fierce war between the two counries, the United Nations Security Council called an emergency meeting on this crisis on Friday.

UN Security Council Meeting

After a closed meeting of the Council in the presence of Cambodia and Thailand, UN Ambassador to Phnom Penh Chia Keo said that Cambodia has demanded an immediate ceasefire unconditionally. Chia Keo said that 'we also call for a peaceful solution to this dispute.'

Advisory By India

In view of the ongoing border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, Indian mission in Thailand has issued travel advisory yesterday on Friday for its citizens in the country, asking them to avoid travelling to seven provinces amid ongoing unrest along the Thailand-Cambodia border. The situation there is still continuously deteriorating and the security risk has increased.

If any Indian citizen needs help in an emergency, they can contact the Indian Embassy, Phnom Penh through the following means. Phone: +855 92881676, Email: cons.phnompenh@mea.gov.in

Backgrounder

Here is a brief account of the current condition regarding Cambodia-Thailand war

1. Cambodia appeals for ceasefire to the United Nations

Cambodia's ambassador to the United Nations, Chea Keo, said that his country does not want war. He said, "We are a small country, we do not have an air force, we cannot attack Thailand, which has a large army. We just want peace."

2. Talks hints by Thailand

The spokesperson of the Thai Foreign Ministry said that his country is ready for peace talks but they have not received any formal proposal yet.

3. Initiative by Malaysia

Malaysia has offered mediation between the two countries. Malaysia is the chairman of ASEAN (Association of South-East Asian Nations). Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said that both the countries have agreed on a ceasefire.

4. Heavy firing on the border

Fighting started again at three places at 4 am on Friday. In response, the Thai army also retaliated appropriately.