BANGKOK, June 16 (TNA) – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Monday affirmed Thailand’s dignity and strength, stating the nation will not tolerate intimidation from any party, following a security meeting on the Thai-Cambodian border situation.
The Prime Minister noted the success of the Joint Border Committee (JBC) meeting from June 14-15, where frameworks for discussion were agreed upon. She also announced the establishment of a special task force led by Deputy Defence Minister General Natthapol Nakpanich to monitor the situation.
Regarding the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Thailand does not accept its jurisdiction and has formed a team to study legal and historical aspects to protect national interests.
Addressing Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen’s recent announcement to close all border crossings if Thailand does not lift its adjusted operating hours, the Prime Minister clarified that Thailand has not closed any checkpoints but merely adjusted timings. This decision, she explained, was made after the detection of heavy and long-range weapons installed near the border, posing risks to civilians on both sides.
Paetongtarn confirmed ongoing discussions with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet since May 28, aimed at achieving peace. She criticized Cambodia’s social media communications as “unprofessional” and detrimental to both countries, while proposing a Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting, a military-level discussion, for further dialogue.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the JBC meeting proceeded well, and Thailand is committed to using bilateral mechanisms for negotiations. She highlighted that all of Thailand’s actions and communications are formally documented to ensure international transparency, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs having briefed foreign ambassadors and Cambodian envoys.
Paetongtarn acknowledged that Thailand communicates less publicly out of respect for international negotiation frameworks, but affirmed the country’s non-provocative stance.
She stressed the unified view of the government and military in protecting national sovereignty while striving to prevent conflict and casualties. – 819 (TNA)
