The peace talks are set to proceed as both sides accuse each other of fresh artillery strikes on contested areas.

First came a push from the Malaysian premier, then China reached out, but it was only after President Donald Trump called Thailand's leader last week that Bangkok agreed to talks with Cambodia to end an escalating military conflict.

Peace talks between Thailand and Cambodia began on Monday in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, with a focus on achieving a ceasefire despite ongoing clashes that dragged into the fifth day.