Bangkok: Surawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, has clarified that any decision to ban Cambodia from participating in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games would require a resolution from the SEA Games Committee, scheduled to convene on August 21.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sorawong addressed concerns regarding whether Cambodia would face a boycott if Thailand hosts the upcoming SEA Games. He mentioned receiving objections from various member countries on the matter. Mr. Sorawong had discussions with Mr. Chaipak Siriwat, Vice President of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand and Chairman of the SEA Games Council, about the impending committee meeting to deliberate on the issue.

When queried about the possibility of a boycott, Mr. Surawong emphasized that such an action could not be solely determined by the SEA Games president. He acknowledged public sentiments expressed on social media but stressed the importance of adhering to a formal process. He reiterated that the decision rests with the member nations, drawing a parallel with the International Olympic Committee’s recent ban on Russia.

In response to further inquiries about the necessity of discussions among member nations, Mr. Surawong confirmed that the topic would indeed be a subject of deliberation at the upcoming SEA Games Committee meeting.