Bangkok: Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Thailand, has called upon military leaders from both Thailand and Cambodia to address the recent clash at Chong Bok, located in Ubon Ratchathani Province. After a closed-room discussion with military commanders, evidence from aerial maps will be reviewed to de-escalate the situation that occurred on May 31st. Soldiers from both nations remain at the line, engaging in dialogue without yet addressing border ownership. Phumtham emphasized the importance of avoiding conflict, stressing that war benefits no one.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham expressed that all parties are working towards resolving the incident. General Pana Klaewplodthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, has instructed all involved to exercise patience and pursue negotiations at various levels. The dialogue is set to continue with General Mao Soephan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Army, on May 31st. Phumtham has also communicated with General Tea Sayha, Cambodia’s Minister of Defense, to ensure open channels of communication between the two nations. Cambodian authorities have shown keen interest in resolving the matter.
Phumtham relayed his conversation with General Tea Sayha, who confirmed that Cambodia seeks to avoid any violent conflict. Similarly, General Hun Manet discussed with General Mao Soephan the importance of maintaining peace. The initial consensus is to prevent further clashes by having troops return to their original positions. Phumtham noted that the detailed ownership of the area remains undiscussed, as emotions need to calm before any decisions are made. He has authorized military commanders to engage in talks to reach a peaceful resolution.
Concerns regarding recurring issues along the Thai-Cambodian border, such as the violation of the 2000 MOU due to canal digging in Chong Bok, were addressed by Phumtham. He asserted that at the policy level, discussions have been sincere and productive. Continued communication is maintained through the General Border Committee and military leadership. Phumtham emphasized the necessity of resolving ownership and clarifying the implementation of the 2000 MOU.
Phumtham refuted claims that the Cambodian side lacks sincerity in adhering to agreements, warning that such assumptions could lead to conflict. He urged against believing in perceptions of local-level collusion between Cambodian forces, highlighting that the recent incident was an accidental exchange of small arms fire at night.
When questioned about the duration of the clash, Phumtham stated the importance of focusing on facts rather than speculation. He highlighted that Cambodian authorities at the local level have adhered to orders from their superiors, with ongoing dialogue to resolve any misunderstandings. He discouraged jumping to conclusions regarding Cambodian military movements, urging patience until the scheduled meeting on May 31st.
Phumtham dismissed concerns about Thailand’s strength, attributing issues to various causes rather than policy weaknesses. He reassured the public that the government is addressing challenges, including global crises, and is committed to avoiding conflict. He emphasized that border disputes are common worldwide and require patient, peaceful negotiation.
In response to reports of Cambodian troops entering Khutkhulet, Phumtham clarified that high-level discussions are ongoing to maintain peace. He reiterated that the best solution is dialogue between troops in the area, as soldiers from both nations continue to talk.
No casualties have been reported from the recent clash, although initial reports suggested minor injuries. The incident was promptly addressed to prevent escalation. General Phana Klaewplodthuk met with Phumtham at Government House for extensive discussions regarding the situation.