BANGKOK, June 5 (TNA) – Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Phumtham Wechayachai, today confirmed that the Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) meeting with Cambodia will proceed as scheduled on June 14.
This affirmation comes despite Cambodia’s recent statement announcing its intent to refer the dispute over four overlapping areas – part of the “Emerald Triangle”, Ta Muan Thom, Ta Muan Toch and Ta Kwai to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and to exclude these from bilateral discussions.
Mr. Phumtham firmly asserted that Thailand does not recognize the ICJ’s jurisdiction, citing a Cabinet resolution from March 19, 2024. He emphasized that the JBC agenda will focus solely on existing contentious border points and the recent shooting incident.
Mr. Phumtham reiterated Thailand’s commitment to its established framework for discussions and dismissed Cambodia’s ICJ pursuit as not binding on Thailand.
He also downplayed the current level of tension along the border, noting that Thai troops remain prepared.
Looking ahead, he confirmed that tomorrow’s National Security Council (NSC) meeting will assess whether existing measures are sufficient or if enhanced steps are required.
While not specifying potential actions, he stressed that any move would be a collective decision based on thorough field assessments and would prioritize national benefit. -819 (TNA)
