BANGKOK, May 29 (TNA) – Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Wednesday said she had spoken directly with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet to swiftly de-escalate a border clash that occurred a day earlier.
The incident at the Chong Bok border pass in Ubon Ratchathani province saw Thai and Cambodian troops exchange fire.
“We have a mutual understanding to resolve the situation as quickly as possible and prevent further incidents,” Paetongtarn told reporters, affirming that her relations with the Cambodian Prime Minister remain cordial.
Meanwhile, Thai Army Commander Gen Pana Klaewplodtuk on Thursday afternoon met with his Cambodian counterpart, Gen Mao Sophan, to address the tensions. Troops from both sides remain in a standoff near the clash site.
Discussions were expected to include examining aerial photos to determine if a newly dug Cambodian military trench violated a 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by extending into disputed territory. Thai officials claim their attempt to negotiate over the 650-meter trench, the second alleged MOU violation, was met with gunfire.
The situation remains tense at a monitoring point – an access point to Chong Bok. Authorities have closed access to villagers and deployed security force. Local residents have expressed concern over the disruption and loss of income from collecting forest products. -819 (TNA)
