Dialogue offers path to peace
Asean Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn is urging Thailand and Cambodia to maintain diplomatic dialogue to resolve ongoing border conflicts. Despite a 2025 ceasefire, tensions persist, and the regional body is pushing for continued peaceful engagement.
Why it matters
Regional stability in Southeast Asia is critical for economic growth and preventing humanitarian crises caused by border displacements.
Mr Kao was speaking on Wednesday during a meeting with regional media in an interface session as part of the 10th Asean Media Forum in Manila, the Philippines.During this interactive session, Mr Kao outlined Asean's major milestones and key deliverables achieved under the Philippines' Chairship of Asean in 2026. He also underscored the region's collective efforts to advance Asean's priorities and address emerging challenges.During the session, Mr Kao was asked to comment on the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia.Kao: Neighbours must engage"I think we have to make all efforts because what happened in 2025 had an impact on the people on both sides of the border, and people in both countries have been displaced," he said.
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