Thai-Cambodian Border Talks Seek Long-term Solutions, Trust-building

By Kenny Teng

BANGKOK, Aug 7 (Bernama) -- Thailand has outlined four key agenda items for discussion during the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, which is taking place in Kuala Lumpur.

Government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap stated that the GBC, which is taking place from Aug 4 to 7, serves as an essential platform for both countries to address and resolve issues concerning their shared border jointly.

He confirmed that observers from the United States and China will also be present at the meeting.

“Among today’s key agenda items are the rebuilding of trust between the military forces of both nations, reaffirming the joint ceasefire agreement, implementing measures to de-escalate tensions in high-risk areas, and ensuring the protection of civilians,” Jirayu said in a statement issued on Thursday.

Jirayu, who also serves on the Special Task Force for Managing the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation (STF-TCB), noted that Deputy Minister of Defence, General Natthaphon Nakpanich, who leads the Thai delegation, had paid a courtesy call on Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya earlier in the day.

“The visit was to express Thailand’s appreciation for Malaysia’s role as the ASEAN Chair, particularly for its efforts in promoting peace in the region and for hosting this GBC meeting,” he said.

He added that Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to resolving disputes peacefully, based on international law and mutual respect for sovereignty.

“The Thai government assures the public that all its actions are conducted within the framework of international law and humanitarian principles, avoiding the excessive use of force and refraining from targeting civilian-populated areas.

“These efforts aim to secure a dignified, fair, and sustainable resolution, laying the groundwork for long-term cooperation,” he said.

Jirayu added that General Natthaphon, together with Supreme Commander General Songwit Noonpakdee, Army Chief of Staff General Thongchai Rodyoi, Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Phairoj Fuangchan, Air Force Chief of Staff Air Chief Marshal Watcharapol Muangnoi, and senior officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior, as well as other relevant security agencies, will participate in the GBC meeting scheduled for 1 pm local time.

On Tuesday, Anwar expressed optimism that the longstanding border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia could see progress during Thursday’s meeting, with both sides working towards a resolution.

Anwar said the defence ministers of both countries would attend the discussions, with the aim of reaching at least a mutual understanding to maintain or reaffirm the ceasefire and prevent further violations, particularly in disputed border areas.

On July 28, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an unconditional and immediate ceasefire following a special meeting in Putrajaya hosted by Anwar.

During that meeting, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai agreed to convene the GBC meeting as part of the ceasefire framework.

-- BERNAMA