Phnom Penh: Cambodia has officially announced that it has ceased importing electricity from Thailand, refuting earlier claims that only specific points of import had been cut off. The Cambodian Electricity Authority issued a statement confirming the halt, denying accusations that the country still receives power from Thailand at select locations. Pol. Lt. Gen. Vanchana has criticized the Cambodian government for the ongoing hardships faced by its people, attributing the situation to domestic policy decisions.
According to Thai News Agency, Maj. Gen. Vanchana Sawasdee, deputy spokesman of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, previously revealed that Cambodia had stopped importing electricity from Thailand at only three points, affecting areas in Sa Kaeo and Trat Provinces. This claim was countered by the Cambodian Electricity Authority, which stated that the nation no longer imports electricity from Thailand at any of the previously active points.
Lt. Gen. Vanchana further addressed the Cambodian public, stating that the difficulties they face stem from the actions of their own government. He referenced past incidents, such as the burning of the Trimuk Pavilion and military confrontations at the border, as precursors to the current situation. Despite Thailand's initial consideration to cut off electricity, Cambodia preemptively ceased its reliance on Thai power, opting instead for domestic electricity sources.
The Cambodian Electricity Authority reported that all nine points of electricity import from Thailand have been completely cut off, and Thailand continues to honor its electricity supply agreement. While Thailand has considered various measures, including a potential electricity cutoff, any actions will require a resolution from the National Security Council.
In response to broader tensions, Cambodia has also stopped using other Thai services, including the internet, and has discouraged the consumption of Thai products and media. Despite this, there remains a demand for Thai goods among Cambodian citizens.
Cambodia has advised its citizens against seeking medical treatment in Thailand, though Maj. Gen. Wanchana assured that Thailand remains willing to provide assistance in emergency situations. The regional dynamics continue to evolve as both nations navigate the implications of their policy decisions.