Bangkok: The House Committee on Military Affairs recently organized a seminar to address the ongoing Thai-Cambodian dispute, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to tackle money laundering issues linked to the conflict. The seminar shed light on the complexities surrounding border tensions and the involvement of influential figures in financial crimes.
According to Thai News Agency, the seminar, titled ‘Using the Mechanism to Suppress Money Laundering in Resolving Security Problems: A Case Study of the Thai-Cambodian Dispute,’ featured notable speakers such as Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, chairman and party-list MP of the Prachachon Party, Mr. Chaiyaphon Satondee, the committee spokesman, Pol. Col. Sinath Prayoonrat, former secretary-general of the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), and Mr. Supalak Kanchanakhundee, an independent academic.
Mr. Wiroj initiated the discussion by highlighting the evolution of financial transactions, stressing the need to address smuggling and influential figures benefiting from illicit activities. He underscored the importance of advanced technologies in combating such issues without resorting to extreme measures.
Pol. Col. Sihanat elaborated on the concept of blacklisting countries that harbor criminal groups, identifying Iran, North Korea, and Cambodia as high-risk nations. He emphasized the potential economic repercussions for countries failing to implement stringent anti-crime measures, noting Cambodia’s recent removal from the grey list in 2023.
Mr. Supalak voiced his opposition to military retaliation, citing the detrimental impact on border communities. Reflecting on past conflicts, he questioned the effectiveness of aggressive tactics in resolving disputes and called for diplomatic negotiations through the Joint Thai-Cambodian Border Committee.
The seminar also addressed the controversial border checkpoint closures, which have strained relations between the two nations. Speakers criticized the inconsistent rhetoric and lack of clear objectives in Thailand’s approach, emphasizing the need for targeted measures to address the root causes of the conflict.
Furthermore, the event highlighted the role of Huione Group Cambodia, a company allegedly involved in extensive money laundering activities, in exacerbating the dispute. The speakers urged international pressure on the Cambodian government to address these issues, warning of the potential economic impact on influential figures within Cambodia.
In conclusion, Mr. Supalak advocated for elevating legal standards in both countries to align with international norms, promoting mutual benefits and fostering long-term stability in the region.