Bangkok: The 2nd Army Area Commander, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, has issued a stirring call to soldiers, urging them to refrain from political involvement to preserve their dignity and serve as a steadfast pillar for the nation. This guidance comes amidst ongoing tensions and historical complexities between Thailand and its neighboring countries.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Gen. Boonsin delivered a special lecture at Thammasat University, focusing on vision, Dharma principles, and border defense strategy. He emphasized that soldiers, as the children of the people, should stay away from political entanglements, thereby maintaining their honor and the nation’s integrity. He also expressed admiration for the Cambodian commander, vowing to embrace him should he genuinely pursue peaceful relations with Thailand.
In his address, Lt. Gen. Boonsin reflected on past conflicts and the burdens they imposed on military personnel. He poignantly recounted the personal sacrifices of soldiers, some of whom lost limbs and eyesight, underscoring the human cost of military engagements. He shared his experiences of visiting wounded soldiers, stating that their suffering far exceeded his own.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin also compared the Thai-Cambodian and Thai-Lao borders, pointing out that while geographical and cultural barriers exist, diplomatic and respectful interactions can prevent conflicts. He highlighted the close ties between Thailand and Laos, facilitated by shared language and culture, contrasting it with the more complex relationship with Cambodia, exacerbated by mismatched territorial maps and communication challenges.
The commander addressed various border issues, including the impact of casinos and illicit activities, underscoring the need for controlled and negotiated border openings. He also shared insights into crisis management during combat situations, recounting a difficult decision to close a temple in response to threats, reflecting his commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty.
On the topic of restoring Thai-Cambodian relations, Lt. Gen. Boonsin emphasized sincerity and leadership’s role in fostering reconciliation, expressing readiness to embrace Cambodian leaders if they were genuinely committed to peace.
Furthermore, he urged citizens to participate in nurturing capable and ethical leaders, warning against the influence of money in politics and the dangers of military involvement in governmental affairs. He reiterated that soldiers’ primary duty is national defense, as prescribed by the constitution, and they should remain apolitical to uphold the nation’s democratic processes.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin also touched upon humanitarian concerns regarding Cambodian civilians affected by regional tensions, advocating for compassion and understanding while addressing the socio-political challenges underlying these issues.