Thailand released 18 Cambodian soldiers on Sunday. They were held since July following deadly border clashes. The release is part of a new ceasefire agreement.
The handover was initially delayed. Thai officials cited ceasefire violations. Chinese diplomatic pressure ultimately secured the soldiers' release. The soldiers, in civilian clothes, were greeted at the border. They were handed over to Cambodian authorities.
The soldiers' captivity fueled nationalist sentiment in Cambodia. Their release is a key step in de-escalation. Both countries agreed to freeze front lines on Saturday. Reinforcements are banned. Civilians can return to border areas.
Tensions along the Thai-Cambodia border escalated this month. Weeks of clashes displaced nearly one million people. Previous clashes occurred in July.
Both sides are expected to uphold the ceasefire agreement. Further diplomatic efforts are anticipated. The focus is now on restoring stability to the border region.
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