Bangkok: The NBTC has reiterated its commitment to the principle of ‘being careful, comprehensive, using mindfulness, and creating peace,’ even as the opposing side develops intricate plans with significant political implications.
According to Thai News Agency, the CCSA confirmed that while Thailand has not closed its borders, it is controlling the timing of entry and exit, highlighting humanitarian principles and urging Cambodia to take decisive action against transnational crimes.
Rear Admiral Surasan Kongsiri, deputy spokesman of the Royal Thai Army and spokesman for the CCAB, announced that their operations are grounded on these principles despite the opposing side’s complex strategies aimed at creating tension and political division within Thai society. The CCAB has been established to address and resolve tensions, integrating short-term and long-term strategies to restore and maintain peace.
In the short term, efforts are focused on reducing current tensions as a matter of national urgency to revert to pre-May conditions. Long-term plans involve recommendations for sustained actions by relevant ministries and agencies. The Border Defense Command Center plays a central role in implementing government policies, passing them through the National Security Council, and coordinating military actions via the Suranaree, Burapha, and Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Forces.
For clarity, claims of border closures on the Thai side are unfounded. Thailand has no policy of closing border crossings. The stricter control measures are humanitarian, allowing essential travel for students, patients, and laborers, among others, while maintaining open borders on the Thai side. However, border crossings remain closed on the Cambodian side, as observed at various checkpoints like Chong Sangam, Chong Chom, and Ban Laem.
The incident involving a letter from the Eastern Task Force, which was leaked to the Cambodian side, highlights coordination issues. This letter intended to facilitate entry and exit for freight vehicles, following the Prime Minister’s visit to Sa Kaeo Province. However, before coordination could occur, the Cambodian side closed the border to Thai freight vehicles.
Ms. Maratee Nalita Andamo, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed Thailand’s adherence to human rights and humanitarian principles. Since June 7, nearly ten thousand people have crossed the border under stricter controls, indicating that the borders remain open, albeit with heightened security measures.
Moreover, the CCSA meeting reinforced the government’s commitment to combating transnational crime, affecting border control. The Thai government consistently cooperates with international and bilateral partners to enhance security and reduce property losses, urging Cambodian authorities to intensify their efforts against transnational crimes.
The NCPO calls on the public to contribute to a peaceful atmosphere conducive to bilateral negotiations, fostering a cooperative environment between Thailand and Cambodia.