Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet hailed the ceasefire as a “brilliant result” and thanked Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for

Leader shares personal toll of intense negotiations, stating he feels a lot older but remains focused on national peace and people's welfare

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Monday said an unconditional ceasefire agreed with Thailand offered a chance for a "return to normalcy" in relations after five days of clashes.

Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet has backed Malaysia's initiative for a ceasefire with Thailand amidst their severe decade-long conflict. Despite initial Malaysian support, Thailand later withdrew.

Of course, trouble at the 508-mile (817 km) shared border is nothing new. For over a century, Thailand and Cambodia have contested sovereignty at various undemarcated points in the thick jungle punctuated with culturally-significant temples albeit with scant strategic or economic value.

For the first time in nearly four decades, Cambodia has a new prime minister. In August, Hun Sen, Cambodia’s leader since late 1984, stepped aside to make way for his eldest son, Hun Manet.

The eldest of Hun Sen's five children, Hun Manet was born in 1977 in rural Cambodia. His father said his son was born from a spirit that emerged from a banyan tree in a flash of light.

Fighting continues along the border between Thailand and Cambodia on July 24, at key conflict points: Ta Mone Thom Temple, Ta Krabey Temple, the Mom Bei area and near Preah Vihear Temple.