Bangkok: The 2nd Army Region Commander, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, has refrained from commenting directly on a live broadcast made by Samdech Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate, which referenced Thailand. He emphasized that the issue is primarily for the government to manage, while assuring that the military remains focused on maintaining security along the border.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Gen. Boonsin addressed questions regarding the current border situation, noting that while the Cambodian forces have not yet withdrawn, Thailand is holding its position, awaiting further instructions from the leadership of both nations. The military's role, as he described, is to ensure the border's security and normalcy, adhering to directives from both countries' leaders.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin acknowledged the ongoing discussions and positive signals from Cambodia, particularly since the deployment of forces at Chong Bok, Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. He highlighted the importance of negotiations between the two countries' leaders to resolve the situation.
When questioned about Samdech Hun Sen's shift to Chief of Staff and his visit to the border area, Lt. Gen. Boonsin commented that it might be a demonstration of leadership, but it has not altered the situation along the border.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin sought to reassure the Thai public, emphasizing that the border issues do not involve threats of military engagement. He mentioned ongoing communications between the two countries' military forces at various levels to avoid any escalation and assured that the situation remains under control.
Regarding the potential resolution of the Thai-Cambodian situation before his retirement, Lt. Gen. Boonsin optimistically suggested that it would be resolved in time. He also noted that the Thai-Cambodian Joint Border Committee is prepared to negotiate, pending a response from Cambodian leaders.
On the topic of tourism at Prasat Ta Muen Thom, Lt. Gen. Boonsin emphasized the longstanding cooperation between the two countries' people to maintain peace and order at the site, assuring that the situation remains stable.
Addressing allegations from Hun Sen's broadcast that involved the Prime Minister and himself, Lt. Gen. Boonsin dismissed them as unrelated to his duties, reaffirming his commitment to protecting sovereignty and maintaining his focus on border security.
The atmosphere at Government House was described as lively, with civil servants and officials expressing support for Lt. Gen. Boonsin, who expressed his determination to continue serving the nation.