At least 12 13 soldiers were killed in the latest clashes between Thailand and Cambodia

Selasa, 26 April 2011
R.A Kawilarang
Vivanews.com

VIVAnews - Indonesia once again conveys its profound concern of the continued hostilities between Thailand and Cambodia at their border areas. The current Chair of ASEAN, Indonesia believes such diplomatic path "must be persevered."

"Indonesia calls for both parties to show courage in putting to the fore the urgent need for cease fire," said Indonesia's Foreign Ministry in its statement today as Cambodia and Thailand resumed skirmishes near the Preah Vihear temple over the last few days.

BBC News reported that at least 12 soldiers have been killed in the latest outbreak of violence between the two neighbours.

Indonesia therefore recalled that only barely two weeks ago, at the meeting of the Joint Border Committee (JBC) in Bogor, Cambodia and Thailand had resolved to address the issues between them through diplomacy; however complex the issues are.

"An immediate end to the recent outbreak of fighting is needed to avoid the further loss of lives, material damage, and sufferings to displaced civilians.

The use of force is inconsistent with the vision of an ASEAN Community united as one," said Indonesia's Foreign Ministry.

At this critical juncture, Indonesia also calls for both parties to materialize their commitment to find a peaceful solution to the issue between them.

Meanwhile, VOA News reported that the defense ministers of Thailand and Cambodia agreed to hold talks for a ceasefire late Tuesday, as spreading border clashes entered their fifth day.