China: Thailand-Cambodia Ceasefire 'Gradually' Implemented, Urges Lasting Peace

• China's foreign ministry announced on January 5 that the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire agreement is being "gradually" implemented.
• China expressed hope for a "comprehensive" and "lasting" ceasefire between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.
• A second ceasefire was agreed in late December, ending 20 days of clashes that killed 101 people and displaced over 500,000 civilians.
• Thailand released 18 Cambodian soldiers on December 31, held for 155 days, as part of the renewed ceasefire deal.
• The US welcomed the December 27 ceasefire and the release of soldiers, calling it a "positive step towards rebuilding neighborly relations."

Why It Matters: China confirms gradual implementation of Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire, urging lasting peace after recent border clashes.