Anwar speaks to Manet, Thai PM, hopes high for ceasefire

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reportedly spoken with the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand. Anwar via FB

[National]

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim spoke to the prime ministers of Cambodia and Thailand this morning, as part of efforts to find a way to de-escalate the current conflict. Today marks the 15th day of fighting since the latest round broke out on December 7.

In a social media post this morning, December 21, Anwar said he had the opportunity to exchange views and discuss the best way forward to de-escalate the tensions that have arisen between the two countries.

“I stressed the importance of Cambodia and Thailand upholding the spirit of dialogue, wisdom and mutual respect in order to end the tensions and preserve peace and stability in the region.

“Tomorrow’s ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is an appropriate and constructive platform for both countries to negotiate openly, peacefully resolve differences, and achieve a just and lasting solution,” he said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on December 19 that he expected the fighting to be halt on Monday or Tuesday after the ASEAN foreign ministers meeting, to be held in Malaysia on December 22.

-The Phnom Penh Post-