Bangkok: The Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives, led by Chair Ms. Sarasnan Annopprapon, has taken a significant step by inviting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defense, and the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the Thai-Cambodian border issue. The committee aims to address the progress and future direction of the ongoing situation, emphasizing negotiation as the ultimate solution.
According to Thai News Agency, the committee has expressed concerns about the current sensitive situation along the Thai-Cambodian border. Ms. Sarasnan noted that while there is progress in the border areas, a policy of retaliation has led to various impacts. The committee seeks to understand the stances of the Ministry of Defense and NSC and to gather insights from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting framework and potential diplomatic directions.
Ms. Sarasnan highlighted the inconsistency of information from Thai and Cambodian media, which has affected local communities. She emphasized the need for a clear direction and communication strategy that aligns with the government’s stance to benefit the public, particularly agricultural exporters. The Ministry of Commerce’s recent clarity on the matter was also noted.
The committee plans to reflect public concerns to relevant agencies, aiming to protect citizens’ interests. They will inquire about the JBC’s implementation and explore short-, medium-, and long-term approaches to avoid confusion and ensure proper communication with ASEAN partners, given the potential regional impact.
Ms. Sarasnan mentioned that the government employs various pressure methods, such as combating call centers, to restore confidence and manage regional threats. She questioned the root causes of the border issue, noting the need for negotiation as border demarcation problems persist globally.
Rejecting the World Court as a solution, Ms. Sarasnan emphasized the importance of peaceful negotiation between countries. She views current policies as short-term and urges the governments of Thailand and Cambodia to resolve tensions swiftly to prevent economic and social repercussions.
Lastly, Ms. Sarasnan acknowledged the challenge of engaging with a government that might not fully adhere to global norms. She called for communication strategies that maximize mutual benefits, focusing on peace and economic prosperity for both nations.