By 
Anna Pelizzari
Rock Staar, November 30, 2021
Thailand and Cambodia have strengthened their partnership by signing seven new agreements focused on human rights at the border, cross-border crimes, labour protection, and environmental cooperation. These new collaboration advancements set the stage for a joint cabinet meeting in July, after its postponement in March.
Thailand and Cambodia have stepped up cooperation with a strong focus on human rights, signing seven new agreements during Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent visit to Phnom Penh. These advancements followed a previously postponed bilateral dialogue, originally scheduled for March, which was delayed due to an urgent mission involving former Cambodian President Hun Sen. The anticipated talks are now expected to resume with a joint cabinet meeting in July, in Sa Kaeo province. The new agreements target key issues such as cooperation to de-escalate growing tensions and crimes along the border, labour rights, and environmental protection, with both governments pledging to improve conditions for vulnerable communities.
The July meeting will address call-centre scams, human and drug trafficking, and PM2.5 pollution. The two countries agreed to share criminal intelligence and restrict online access used by scam networks. Efforts will focus on ensuring that Thai nationals working in Cambodia hold valid work permits, while Cambodian workers in Thailand receive proper legal safeguards and welfare. Environmental rights were addressed through a new memorandum targeting transboundary air pollution, which will translate into a joint commitment to protect public health and hold polluters to account. The signing of a revised Labour Employment Agreement and the launch of a Cambodian–Thai Skill Development Centre also aim to promote fair employment and long-term economic empowerment.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn reiterated Thailand’s support for demining operations, a huge issue especially in the territory of Cambodia, and inclusive border development. Both leaders reaffirmed their strategic partnership and expressed a shared vision of sustainable growth and stronger protections, a positive sign for the communities most at risk along the border.
Sources and Further Readings:
Cambodia postpones border talks with Thailand
Thai–Cambodian joint Cabinet meeting to be held in July: Govt spokesman
Thailand, Cambodia sign 7 cooperation deals, witnessed by PMs
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