Bangkok: The House Committee on Security has extended an invitation to the government and military to discuss the potential role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in establishing long-term peace along the Thai-Cambodian border.

According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives’ Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform, led by Mr. Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the Prachachon Party, is actively pursuing solutions to the persistent border conflicts.

Mr. Rangsiman highlighted the need for vigilant monitoring of the Thai-Cambodian border situation, acknowledging that while the situation may seem stable, underlying issues persist. Tensions continue to simmer, especially in the Chong An Ma area, which has been plagued by long-standing border management failures. This has allowed a Cambodian community to establish itself, heightening the need for strategic discussions on future actions. Encroachment concerns, including the construction of casinos, further complicate the matter, necessitating dialogue on preventive measures.

The meeting will address these issues, with discussions expected to involve General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense. Diplomatic strategies and foreign relations will also be on the agenda, with negotiations deemed crucial for a resolution. Mr. Rangsiman emphasized the importance of re-examining the role of the ICC, noting that previous discussions have yielded little progress.

In anticipation of General Nattapol’s participation, Mr. Rangsiman expressed hope for a focused resolution to the border dispute. The ongoing tensions have prompted some villagers to return to shelters, affecting approximately 500 individuals, and have diminished business confidence in the region. Thus, finding a clear and actionable path forward is imperative.

“We seek to engage with the deputy minister to address this prolonged issue,” Mr. Rangsiman stated. “The current stagnation benefits no one. It is essential to discuss with government representatives the mechanisms by which the ICC might facilitate lasting peace along the border and encourage a return to negotiations.”