South East Asia's top diplomats are set to meet Monday in Malaysia to end deadly border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia that have killed at least 41 people and displaced close to one million others.
They will seek to revive a ceasefire that was brokered in July by Malaysia as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and US President Donald Trump.
This will be the first meeting between Thailand and Cambodia since fighting resumed on December 8, with both nations blaming each other for the renewed hostilities.
The conflict dates back more than a century, originating from the borders drawn following the French occupation of Cambodia.
The most recent fighting has involved the exchange of artillery fire along the 800km (500-mile) border, with Thailand launching air strikes targeting Cambodian positions.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who presided over the signing of the July ceasefire, expressed cautious optimism regarding the upcoming meeting in Kuala Lumpur.
Our duty is to present the facts, but more importantly, to press upon them that it is imperative for them to secure peace, he stated.
Cambodia has emphasized that the talks should aim to restore peace, stability and good neighbourly relations, reaffirming its commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful means.
Conversely, Thailand reiterated its call for a declaration of ceasefire from Cambodia prior to negotiations, emphasizing the need for a genuine and sustained ceasefire.
The US and China have also been involved in mediating efforts for a new ceasefire. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope for a resolution by early next week.
China's special envoy for Asian affairs, Deng Xijun, visited Phnom Penh to reaffirm China's commitment to facilitating dialogue between the two nations.
