BANGKOK, June 18 (TNA) – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra today confirmed the authenticity of a leaked audio clip of her private conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Speaking at an urgent press conference, Paetongtarn acknowledged the clip, which details discussions on the Thai-Cambodian border situation, was a genuine private conversation that took place on June 15. The call was made after a separate clip featuring the commander of Thailand’s 2nd Army Region discussing border issues reportedly angered Cambodia.
Paetongtarn stated she initiated the call to clarify matters and proposed coordinating the opening and closing of border checkpoints to resolve the ongoing issues, a suggestion she said Cambodia rejected.
The Prime Minister believes the leak, which she denies responsibility for, was intended to boost Hun Sen’s popularity. “From now on, there will be no more private discussions,” she asserted.
When asked if trust between their two families could be restored, Paetongtarn replied, “I don’t know.”
She further affirmed that despite the conversation’s apparent intent to divide the government and the military, there were no problems between them. She explained that she consistently consulted the military before taking any action.
Meanwhile, Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Area, revealed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra called to clarify an issue, explaining the content of her conversation with Samdech Hun Sen.
The Prime Minister’s intention was to de-escalate the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border, describing it as an “informal discussion.” Lt. Gen. Boonsin stated he told the Prime Minister, “I have no issues. I understand.”
Lt. Gen. Boonsin added that he has no lingering concerns regarding the audio clip. He affirmed his commitment to working for the nation and its people. -819 (TNA)
