US commits $45 million in aid to support Cambodian-Thai ceasefire agreement

US Announces $45m in Aid for Border Stabilization Efforts in Thailand and Cambodia

The United States has announced plans to provide $45 million in aid to support border stabilization efforts, demining, and combating drug trafficking and cybercrime in Thailand and Cambodia. The assistance is earmarked to help both countries implement a fragile truce brokered by former US President Donald Trump.

According to Michael DeSombre, the US assistant secretary for East Asia, the country will offer $20 million to combat drug trafficking and cybercrime, which have become significant concerns in Cambodia. Additionally, $15 million will be allocated for border stabilization efforts to support people displaced by recent fighting, while $10 million will be dedicated to de-mining and unexploded ordnance clearance.

DeSombre met with senior Thai and Cambodian officials in Bangkok and Phnom Penh to discuss the implementation of the peace accords. The US has also announced plans to provide funding for these efforts, as part of its ongoing support for the Cambodian and Thai governments.

The aid package is part of a broader effort to promote stability and prosperity in the region. Thailand and Cambodia have been embroiled in a longstanding conflict over their border, which was demarcated by France during the colonial era. The countries agreed on a ceasefire in December, following 20 days of fighting that resulted in at least 101 deaths and displaced over half a million people.

The US has sought to improve relations with Cambodia, while maintaining its alliance with Thailand. The country has also been working to combat financial fraud operations targeting US citizens in Southeast Asia.

Source: Al Jazeera