Bangkok: “Phumtham” confirms Thai-Cambodian ceasefire negotiations, assigning military leaders from both sides to find a joint resolution. Phumtham insists that the ceasefire negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia are to reduce the damage to civilians, not to discuss opening the border crossing. He has assigned military leaders from both sides to find a mutual solution.
According to Thai News Agency, on July 28, 2015, in Malaysia, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acting as Prime Minister, gave an interview after ceasefire negotiations with Cambodia. He stated that today’s discussions did not address opening the border crossing, but focused on a ceasefire to minimize damage to civilians. This initiative will be governed by the General Border Committee (GBC).
In the past, the two armies have engaged in dialogue to find solutions and have maintained a close relationship, often training together. However, the recent incident challenged this cooperation, as sovereignty must be upheld. The mediator, Mr. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and ASEAN Chair, communicated the positive reception of the conclusion to ASEAN, with China and the United States expressing satisfaction. Thailand felt that the civilian loss issue had been addressed.
Mr. Phumtham reiterated the importance of protecting national sovereignty and indicated that military leaders would spearhead efforts to reach a resolution. The Thai negotiation team, comprising the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Prime Minister’s Office, coordinated with international stakeholders, including the United States, China, and ASEAN, who all desired an end to the violence. The international community, recognizing Thailand as a victim, supported peaceful resolutions compliant with legal standards.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted Thailand’s peaceful history and the need for a ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties. The negotiations aimed at achieving a swift ceasefire to alleviate civilian hardship.
Mr. Phumtham stated that the discussions with the military would ensure sovereignty protection, while a quick resolution could save the lives of 160,000 displaced individuals. An immediate ceasefire proposal was discussed, with all parties satisfied. The 1st and 2nd Army Regions of Thailand were set to meet Cambodian troops, with ongoing coordination and military decision-making. Successful negotiations would lead to international meetings to witness the continued resolution of the conflict.