Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, has confirmed that Cambodia has encroached 200 meters into a No Man’s Land area along the Thai-Cambodian border. He emphasized the need for negotiations through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), clarifying that this does not equate to yielding, as Thailand possesses substantial information and evidence regarding the situation. The army is preparing to maintain forces along the border, with the JBC meeting scheduled for June 14 in Phnom Penh expected to provide clarity on the issue.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham addressed the situation following a visit to the Thai-Cambodian border area at Chong Bok, Ubon Ratchathani Province. He noted discrepancies between current reports and the actual situation, cautioning the public to verify information. He assured that no new mines have been laid in the area, attributing such claims to outdated images that create confusion and undermine public trust.
Mr. Phumtham explained that the 200-meter encroachment is a matter for the JBC committee. The overlapping claims in the border area designate it as No Man’s Land. Cambodia’s actions are seen as a violation of JBC Article 5, with Thailand awaiting the outcome of the upcoming meeting. He stressed that Thailand seeks a peaceful resolution through established international mechanisms and reiterated that the area in question is not yet definitively claimed by either nation.
He also emphasized that Thailand’s approach has been peaceful and that political agendas should not overshadow national interests. Mr. Phumtham confirmed that the National Security Council is actively monitoring the situation, with plans to establish a subcommittee for ongoing oversight.
The IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore was mentioned, where Cambodia allegedly accused the Thai military of causing deaths in a clash at Chong Bok. Mr. Phumtham clarified that this was not a formal lawsuit and that the query was posed during a session on cross-regional networks, not by an official Cambodian representative.
Mr. Phumtham addressed the potential for military action if necessary, stating that the army is prepared for any developments. He called for a JBC meeting to resolve the issue, noting that Thailand is ready to host if Cambodia is unable. The meeting is now set for June 14, with both nations expected to refrain from further action until then.
He asserted that the JBC meeting is not about conceding to Cambodia but about using the proper channels for resolution. He urged the public to rely on verified information to avoid exacerbating tensions and complicating negotiations.
Regarding emergency measures, Mr. Phumtham mentioned that the army commander has the authority to close checkpoints if martial law is declared. However, he indicated that actions would be taken gradually to prevent escalation.
Lastly, he addressed the influence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, stating that there is currently no intervention from him, and that the focus remains on official channels to resolve the conflict. He emphasized that the JBC meeting will concentrate on the Chong Bok area rather than broader territorial disputes, urging calm and discretion in handling international legal matters.