Bangkok: The 2nd Army Region Commander has expressed hope that the General Border Committee (GBC) discussions will lead to a favorable outcome, while firmly stating that military forces will not be withdrawn.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, who leads the Second Army Region, participated in the GBC meeting between Thailand and Cambodia held in Malaysia. Although he was yet to receive specific details of the discussions, he anticipated a positive and mutually advantageous agreement. Lt. Gen. Boonsin emphasized that the resolution of any border tensions post-August 7th would hinge on the terms agreed upon by both nations’ leaders. He reiterated that if both countries reached an agreement on each other’s conditions, the situation could be easily resolved, though he refrained from predicting the outcome.
Addressing the question of troop withdrawal, Lt. Gen. Boonsin was clear, stating, “The army will not retreat because we are advancing within our sovereign territory.”
Both Thai and Cambodian armies have adhered to a ceasefire agreement established by their respective governments to maintain border peace. Lt. Gen. Boonsin acknowledged challenges related to unidentified drones in the area, noting that efforts have been made to track individuals involved in espionage activities. Despite some drones being flown with disruptive intent, the Second Army Region has worked to improve the situation by integrating all sectors to combat the issue.
In an incident involving the Air Force Police Officer apprehending Cambodians with drones illegally flying over Wing 5, Lt. Gen. Boonsin highlighted the police’s responsibility to investigate while ensuring justice for the accused. A ban on drone flights has been announced as part of these efforts.
On the matter of the odor of corpses at the Thai-Cambodian border, Lt. Gen. Boonsin confirmed coordination with Cambodian authorities to retrieve soldiers’ bodies, emphasizing the need to prevent potential health hazards. Progress has been made as Cambodia has begun removing some of the bodies.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin also addressed the health and well-being of personnel, stating that medical teams are available for care. The situation has improved with Cambodian ambulances now transporting the injured and deceased, aligning with previous agreements for Thai assistance.
In a gesture of support, Lt. Gen. Boonsin received consumer goods from Col. Chawalit Bunyamanee, representing the Yu Sa-at Market, to distribute to soldiers stationed along the Thai-Cambodian border.