Bangkok: “Bhumtham” has refrained from providing specifics on the ongoing Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, maintaining that the direction of the discussions is promising. He indicated willingness to speak further only after the negotiations have concluded. Meanwhile, Deputy Defense Minister General Nattapol Nakphanit, also known as “Big Lek,” expressed a hopeful outlook for the results of tomorrow’s discussions, asserting a 90% confidence level. He acknowledged some concerns but noted the presence of international observers, suggesting that Cambodia would proceed cautiously.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, after attending the National Security Council (NSC) and Cabinet meeting, announced that the GBC Secretariat had reported positive trends from discussions held between August 4th and 6th. He assured a comprehensive statement would follow the conclusion of tomorrow’s discussions, scheduled for the afternoon of August 7, 2025.
The upcoming negotiations are being overseen by Deputy Defense Minister General Nattapol Nakphanit, who is tasked with guiding the meeting to ensure a favorable outcome. He confirmed that the discussions would not center on the Thai-Cambodian border itself and opted to withhold further details at this stage.
General Nattapol Nakphanit shared insights after the NSC meeting, expressing confidence that the ministerial-level GBC discussions would reach a conclusion tomorrow. He outlined the process in stages: starting at the secretary level, advancing to the ministerial level, and finally being assessed in practice. He anticipates positive news and encouraged support from all sectors.
Addressing potential concerns for tomorrow’s negotiations, General Nattapol admitted to some apprehension but remained optimistic due to the presence of international observers, which he believed would ensure caution. He clarified that the confusion surrounding news releases from both the military and government is being addressed, with the CCSA focusing on security matters and the government spokesperson covering other issues. He apologized for repeated press conferences, explaining they are necessary to keep the public informed, as not everyone is fully engaged with the updates.
In anticipation of tomorrow, General Nattapol mentioned the introduction of another spokesperson for the CCSA, set to be announced at 9:00 a.m.