Cambodia-Thailand start Phase One in readjusting large weapons along the border under the observation of the AOT team

 

...The Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Kingdom of Thailand have begun implementing the readjustment and heavy destructive weapons-materiel out of the disputed border areas, in accordance with the bilateral agreement, in order to increase confidence, reduce tension, and develop the border areas to become peace zones. This implementation is done under the voluntary observation and verification by the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), which is an important step for maintaining regional stability. _Specific content of the implementation _The first phase of military resource withdrawal activities includes: _Withdrawal of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and distance monitoring systems _Relocation of armored vehicles and heavy guns _Defining storage areas and forces to stay within a safe distance _Establishment of a bilateral military communication channel for time reporting The AOT team inspected at the start of the project and performed verification using GPS devices and remote sensing technology to ensure that the implementation steps are dignified and accurate. Top officials of the Cambodian side confirmed that this party-withdrawal strategy is not just strategic knowledge, but a key for peace and socio-economic development of the border area. While the Thai side also issued a message with the same direction, praising the strong cooperation and the responsible implementation by the two forces. Citizens in the border area who had been affected by previous tension expressed delight that this heavy weapon withdrawal will bring about better safety and services. A local resident of Yeak La Hoy area, Preah Vihear Province, said: > “When we hear that they withdraw the big weapons, we feel calm. Before, we were afraid the war would start again, but now we can plan for agriculture and trade and make better decisions than before.” _According to the plan, the implementation will continue into Phase 2 and Phase 3, which will focus on: _Integration of international techniques for renewed verification _Increased military cooperation and regional safety lessons _Strengthening border services and community infrastructure development Cambodia and Thailand also raised the project to create a Peace-Commerce Border Zone to promote tourism, agriculture, and meeting gatherings between the citizens of the two nations.