On Sunday at the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Cambodia and Thailand made a bold move toward deeper stability by signing a joint declaration on peace. The agreement marks a milestone in decades of cooperation and addresses key areas such as border security, economic integration and cultural exchange.
Bilateral trade between Cambodia and Thailand has surged past $18 billion over the last year, making them each other’s top trading partners in the region. Meanwhile, more than 2 million Thai visitors explored Cambodia’s temples last year, fueling a tourism boom that both capitals hope to expand under new visa agreements. The new declaration aims to streamline cross-border trade by simplifying customs procedures, launching digital frameworks for small businesses and enhancing infrastructure linkages—from rail lines to river ports.
For young entrepreneurs and digital nomads, this pact opens fresh doors: faster visa processes, new co-working hubs in cross-border towns and joint startup accelerators focusing on sustainability tech. The declaration also spotlights eco-tourism, pledging to protect wetlands and heritage sites while promoting community-led experiences.
"Today, we turn the page to a stronger, more connected future," said Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin added that the pact "paves the way for generations of shared growth and understanding."
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
