Algeria's parliament has unanimously passed a law declaring French colonization a crime, demanding reparations and an apology from France. Meanwhile, Thailand and Cambodia have initiated talks aimed at ending violent clashes over a border dispute that have resulted in significant casualties and displacement.

Algeria's Legislative Action
On Wednesday, Algeria's lawmakers approved a bill that holds France legally responsible for its colonial actions from 1830 to 1962. The legislation outlines various "crimes of French colonization," including nuclear tests, extrajudicial killings, and the systematic plundering of resources. The parliament speaker emphasized that the vote sends a clear message regarding Algeria's national memory and its demand for compensation for the damages inflicted during the colonial period. Although French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged the colonization as a "crime against humanity," he has refrained from issuing a formal apology, leaving the diplomatic relationship between the two nations strained.

Thailand-Cambodia Peace Talks
In a separate development, officials from Thailand and Cambodia began four days of negotiations on Wednesday at a border checkpoint in Chanthaburi province. These discussions aim to address the recent violent clashes that have resulted in over 40 deaths and displaced approximately one million people. The Cambodian government initially sought a neutral venue for the talks but ultimately agreed to meet at the border. Both sides expressed hope for a cessation of hostilities and a return to stability. However, the success of the talks hinges on the sincerity of both parties in implementing a ceasefire.

Underlying Tensions
The renewed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia stems from a long-standing territorial dispute over the colonial-era border demarcation and a few ancient temple ruins. Each side has accused the other of instigating the recent violence, which escalated after a truce was brokered by the US, China, and Malaysia following earlier clashes in July. Despite ongoing cross-border fire, there is cautious optimism from both sides regarding the peace talks.

Wrap-up
Algeria's declaration against French colonization highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and reparations from former colonial powers, while the negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia present a critical opportunity to de-escalate a violent border conflict. Both situations underscore the complexities of historical grievances and territorial disputes in international relations.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team