Bangkok: “Somchai” has urged the Thai government to provide a clear confirmation regarding the contentious issue of the 1:200,000 map in its ongoing border conflict with Cambodia. He emphasized that the recent Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting did not endorse the use of the disputed map, contrary to claims made by Cambodia, and criticized the neighboring country for insincerity in bilateral negotiations.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, an academic, expressed concerns over the JBC meeting with Cambodia, which aims to resolve border disputes. He insisted that while Thailand upholds its sovereignty, those not directly involved in the negotiations should refrain from excessive commentary. He noted that the government is making progress and that the atmosphere during negotiations was positive. However, before the meeting’s second day commenced, Cambodia submitted claims to the International Court of Justice concerning three temples and one area within Thailand’s borders. Cambodia subsequently issued a press release stating that Thailand had accepted their rough 1:200,000 map, conflicting with Thailand’s preference for a more detailed 1:50,000 map.

Mr. Somchai highlighted that if Thailand were to adhere to the rough map, it would lead to unclear border demarcations and subsequent territorial disputes. He indicated that accepting this map could imply a failure to protect national interests or a betrayal of Thai sovereignty. Late in the evening, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs refuted Cambodia’s announcement, affirming that Thailand did not accept the 1:200,000 map. This situation has reportedly led to growing public dissatisfaction with the Thai government, which is anticipated to reach a peak.

The forthcoming press conference by the Thai government is deemed crucial for maintaining public approval. Mr. Somchai stressed the need for the government to explicitly deny any acceptance of the 1:200,000 map during the meeting, as Cambodia had falsely claimed. He also criticized Cambodia’s decision to approach the International Court of Justice before concluding negotiations, suggesting a lack of commitment to bilateral resolutions.

In light of this, Mr. Somchai suggested that Thailand cancel all existing memorandums of understanding and the next scheduled bilateral meeting in September 2025 unless Cambodia demonstrates sincerity in the negotiations. Furthermore, he reiterated Thailand’s rejection of the International Court of Justice’s authority over the disputed areas and affirmed the Thai military’s readiness to defend the territory against any encroachment.