New york: Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, addressed the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, delivering a pointed critique of Cambodia’s stance on their ongoing border dispute. Sihasak accused Cambodia of consistently playing the victim while violating agreements and distorting facts. He asserted that the true victims are the Thai soldiers, children, and civilians affected by the conflict.
According to Thai News Agency, Sihasak emphasized that the disputed areas, Ban Nong Chan and Nong Ya Kaeo, are under Thai sovereignty, accusing Cambodia of encroachment. He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to peace and urged Cambodia to choose a path of cooperation over confrontation. During his speech, Sihasak highlighted Thailand’s readiness to collaborate with other nations and international bodies to foster peace, security, and sustainable development, advocating for a more effective and equitable UN system.
Sihasak described the Thai-Cambodian border situation as unsatisfactory, impacting the peace and prosperity of both nations, which he referred to as part of the “ASEAN family.” He expressed disappointment over Cambodia’s portrayal of itself as a victim, accusing it of distorting the truth. He underscored the real victims’ plight, citing Thai soldiers injured by landmines and civilians affected by rocket attacks.
In a recent meeting with Cambodian representatives, Sihasak discussed peace and emphasized mutual trust. However, he noted that Cambodia’s statements at the UNGA contradicted their previous agreements, questioning Cambodia’s true intentions. Sihasak accused Cambodia of escalating the border dispute into a national conflict and criticized its historical actions during the Cambodian civil war, when Thailand extended humanitarian aid to fleeing Cambodians.
Sihasak recounted Thailand’s efforts to assist Cambodia post-conflict, helping rebuild the country with infrastructure and essential services. He lamented Cambodia’s provocations, including civilian mobilization and border encroachments, which undermine peace efforts. Recent incidents of Cambodian drone incursions and gunfire towards Thai soldiers were highlighted as violations of Thailand’s sovereignty and the ceasefire agreement.
Emphasizing Thailand’s dedication to peace, Sihasak urged Cambodia to engage in peaceful negotiations. He reiterated Thailand’s choice of peace and cooperation, inviting Cambodia to share this commitment. Sihasak concluded by affirming Thailand’s principles of dialogue, trust, and honesty in international relations, especially with ASEAN allies and major powers.
Throughout Sihasak’s address, his remarks on ASEAN solidarity and humanitarian assistance received applause from the audience. His participation in the four-party consultations, including the United States, Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia, aimed to foster a peaceful resolution to the border dispute, reflecting Thailand’s focus on security and adherence to the ceasefire agreement as key priorities.