Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, is set to inform US President Donald Trump about four key conditions for negotiations with Cambodia. Anutin emphasizes that there is no deadline to remove Cambodians from the disputed area, assuring that efforts to resolve the Sa Kaeo border dispute will not be delayed. The House Committee is currently considering the cancellation of Memoranda of Understanding 43 and 44.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin spoke about the possibility of meeting Cambodian leaders during the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia. He outlined four conditions for Cambodia, including the withdrawal of heavy weapons to ensure the safety of Thai citizens. Other critical issues include addressing scams and the residency of Cambodian citizens in Thailand.
Anutin clarified there is no October 10 deadline for action against Cambodians in the disputed area. He insisted on the necessity of taking action and mentioned that measures would be put in place if no progress is made.
Anutin also addressed Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet’s claim regarding General Nattapol Nakphanit’s signing of the GBC to resolve the Sa Kaeo border issue only through the JBC. He strongly refuted any delays on Thailand’s part, asserting that Cambodia is the invading party. He further explained that Trump expressed a desire for Thailand and Cambodia to negotiate a resolution. Anutin plans to inform Trump that if Cambodia adheres to the four conditions, Thailand will proceed accordingly, emphasizing the importance of these conditions for national security and the safety of Thai people.
Regarding public awareness of the situation on October 10, Anutin mentioned that the governor of Sa Kaeo Province is responsible for coordinating with the military, which has agreed to manage the situation under the Martial Law Act in collaboration with administrative, police, and forestry sectors.
Anutin also touched on the potential cancellation of MOUs 43 and 44, indicating that the committee is reviewing the matter. The timeline for this process depends on parliamentary proceedings, with both houses involved. Each issue must be addressed individually, but Anutin cautioned against expecting long-term resolutions in the near future. The immediate focus is on resolving the current situation as effectively as possible.