Thailand-Cambodia Border Dispute Threatens ASEAN Stability
ASEAN Stability at Risk: Indonesian Lawmaker warns of Thailand-Cambodia conflict Fallout
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Jakarta, Indonesia – the escalating armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia poses a meaningful threat to the broader stability and security of Southeast Asia, according to Sukamta, the Deputy Chair of Commission I of the indonesian House of Representatives (DPR).
Regional Stability Concerns
Sukamta expressed his primary concern regarding the potential for disruptions to the regional stability of ASEAN. “What I am concerned about the most is the potential disruptions to the regional stability of ASEAN,” he stated in a release from Jakarta on Saturday.
While acknowledging the potential for regional instability, Sukamta opined that the conflict would likely not have a direct impact on Indonesia, given that the nation does not share a border with either of the involved countries.
strengthening ASEAN Solidarity
The lawmaker underscored the critical importance of all ASEAN member states reinforcing their solidarity. This collective strength, he argued, is essential for bolstering the region’s resilience against conflicts and their inevitable economic repercussions.
“The ASEAN region is of high strategic value - a region with economic potential and natural resources that appeal to global powers. Hence, fragile relations among ASEAN countries could leave the region prone to proxy conflicts,” Sukamta elaborated, highlighting the delicate geopolitical landscape.
Hope for De-escalation and Resolution
Sukamta voiced his hope that tensions between Thailand and Cambodia would not escalate further and that both nations would swiftly reach an agreement for an immediate ceasefire. He noted that despite past clashes, history has shown a capacity for rapid de-escalation and the restoration of peace between the two neighboring countries.
“It should be noted that even though these countries have clashed like this multiple times, history shows that they have always managed to quickly ease tensions and restore peace,” he remarked.
Bearing this historical context in mind, Sukamta expressed confidence that Thailand and Cambodia would soon find a peaceful resolution, recognizing the possibly disastrous and far-reaching impacts of prolonged warfare.
Indonesia’s Role in Peacebuilding
Sukamta urged the Indonesian government to take a proactive role in facilitating peace between Thailand and Cambodia. This engagement, he suggested, could be pursued through bilateral or multilateral channels.
“If necessary, Indonesia can propose an ASEAN meeting to specifically discuss peaceful ways to resolve the Thailand-Cambodia conflict,” he proposed, offering a concrete diplomatic initiative.
Earlier on Friday, the Cambodian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Keo Chhea, had publicly called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. On the same day, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that Bangkok would consider a ceasefire, contingent upon “appropriate on-the-ground conditions.”
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