The collapse of relations between Thailand and Cambodia may seem a matter only they can resolve, but the ramifications are, in fact, regional. Unparalleled stability has taken root in Southeast Asia and it cannot be put at risk by such a spat.
In the past decade, links and co-operation have expanded to an unprecedented level. Through trade and air routes, the region has grown closer.
This has happened despite centuries of wars, border disputes and ethnic rivalry. Distrust has not been erased, yet there is a sense that the region wants to move together to tackle the future rather than individually.
Ties were strengthened through expansion of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and creation of the Asean Regional Forum. The threat of terrorism evoked a desire for military and police co-operation and intelligence sharing.
Thailand and Cambodia have shown that the clock can too easily be turned back. On January 29, mobs raged through Phnom Penh, razing Thailand's embassy and burning businesses owned by Thais. Diplomatic relations were downgraded, borders closed and trade stopped.
Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen, whose nationalistic comments sparked the unrest, yesterday offered to fully compensate Thailand. His efforts may repair more than US$50 million in damage, but will not heal the deep wounds.