As Cambodian and Thai authorities agreed to ease up on the use of violence against illegal border crossers into both countries, Thailand stopped short of pledging to refrain from shooting trespassers into the neighbouring kingdom.

The agreement was made after a three-day meeting held in Bangkok that ended on Friday, and was chaired by Interior Minister Sar Kheng and Thai Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda.

“Illegal migration [and] border crossing between the two countries will resolve with favour and understanding in accordance with both the international and national humanitarian and lawful procedures of each country,” a statement posted to the General Commissariat of National Police on Saturday said, adding that both nations agreed to continue to facilitate border crossing for seasonal workers.

The statement also said provinces in both countries that straddled the Cambodia-Thai border would pay more attention to law enforcement to improve security.

“The two countries also pledged to fight against human trafficking and open a new border checkpoint,” the statement reads.

The Cambodian government said earlier this month that at least five Cambodian illegal loggers were gunned down by Thai authorities during the first half of this year.

Interior Ministry spokesman Khieu Sopheak and National Police spokesman Kirt Chantharith could not be reached yesterday.