Bangkok: Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, addressed the recent development concerning Cambodia’s decision to establish a committee to petition the International Court of Justice over four disputed areas along the Thai-Cambodian border.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham remarked that the initiative is Cambodia’s responsibility and that Thailand has its own measures in place to handle the situation. He emphasized that the legal process cannot be disclosed at this stage.
Mr. Phumtham explained that Cambodia’s committee is preparing to file a lawsuit regarding the border areas of Chong Bok, Ta Muen Thom, Ta Muen Tod, and Ta Kwai. He expressed that each nation is executing its duties, and while Cambodia is taking action, Thailand has chosen not to accept the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice since the administration of Prime Minister Settha Thavisin. He urged that the process should proceed naturally.
When questioned about the potential issues that unresolved matters might pose during the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting, Mr. Phumtham acknowledged that complete resolution is unlikely. He stressed the importance of ongoing discussions in areas of disagreement, stating that issues should be addressed part by part to avoid problems, as mutual agreements were made in the JBC forum.
Regarding the impact on border operations, Mr. Phumtham stated that current measures remain under the supervision of the Army Commander and the 2nd Army Region Commander. The border controls involve opening and closing according to time schedules and limiting the number of people, without an increase in measures. He noted that confrontations have been managed by adjusting forces, and cooperative efforts such as joint activities and patrols are expected to enhance the overall atmosphere.
Addressing concerns about potential parallels with the Preah Vihear Temple case, Mr. Phumtham clarified that the two cases are separate, though lessons may be learned from the past. He refrained from discussing the matter further, suggesting that the Department of Foreign Treaties would be more suited to address legal specifics.
In response to the Yam Fao Pandin Foundation’s proposal to change the head of the negotiating team, Mr. Phumtham asserted that individuals directly involved and familiar with the current situation should continue to handle negotiations. He emphasized that the decision should focus on resolving the country’s issues rather than personal preferences.
Finally, on the matter of Cambodia’s unilateral lawsuit and its potential impact on Thailand, Mr. Phumtham noted the complexity of the situation. He stated that while some may choose to sue, those who do not accept the process will not engage. He deferred further legal discussion to the Department of Foreign Treaties, affirming that Thailand is prepared with guidelines to address the crisis, though specific preparations were not disclosed.