Bangkok: The NCPO has urged Cambodia to collaborate in addressing transnational crimes, amidst heightened border restrictions. The call comes even as Thailand maintains its commitment to humanitarian principles. Seven Cambodian patients have already received medical treatment, and the public is encouraged to support border trade.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Maratee Nalita Andamo, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside Rear Admiral Surasan Kongsiri, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, announced the outcomes of a meeting conducted by the Center for Special Operations in the Administration of the Situation on the Thai-Cambodian Border (CSO) on June 25, 2025. The meeting focused on intensifying control over border crossings, imposing stricter regulations while allowing essential crossings for humanitarian reasons. Despite these measures, border operations remain largely normal, with over 7,000 Cambodians returning home through one checkpoint, and seven Cambodian patients receiving timely treatment.
Ms. Maratee emphasized that while border management has become more stringent, the Thai authorities are committed to upholding humanitarian principles. The measures have been carefully adjusted to ensure they do not disrupt necessary border activities, preserving friendly people-to-people relations between Thailand and Cambodia.
The meeting also covered the integration of the CCSD with relevant mechanisms to combat transnational crimes such as online fraud, human trafficking, and drug smuggling, following the April release of the UNODC Southeast Asia Report. In response, the Prime Minister has announced enhanced measures, including suspending exports of potentially illicit-use goods to Cambodia. These measures target crime networks, ensuring the safety of border communities and require collaborative efforts from both nations. Mrs. Maratee stressed that the problem of transnational crimes is a shared regional concern, and Thailand remains committed to working earnestly with Cambodia and other neighboring countries.
Economic impacts of these measures, such as the suspension of Cambodian oil imports affecting Thai businesses, were also deliberated. Relevant agencies have provided essential information to manage these challenges effectively.
In closing, Mrs. Maratee called for Thai citizens to avoid provocative or extreme expressions, particularly on social media, to prevent further tensions. The Thai government seeks constructive dialogue and hopes Cambodia will soon participate in the RBC meeting, aiming for a return to negotiations and mutual resolutions.