Bangkok: General Nattapol Nakphanit, currently serving as the Deputy Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Defense, confirmed that there is no leadership vacuum despite the absence of a formal Defense Minister. He emphasized that the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border remains stable and is expected to improve following initial talks with Cambodian officials. The talks aim to open the General Border Committee (GBC) stage, though negotiations are ongoing. Nattapol expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his trust and mentioned that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is preparing for potential legal proceedings with Cambodia over territorial disputes involving three castles and one area.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nattapol addressed the current border situation, noting that while stability is maintained, informal military-level talks with Cambodia are progressing towards bilateral discussions. The GBC mechanism, typically chaired by the Minister of Defense, is expected to facilitate these talks. While there have been improvements in communication, Nattapol acknowledged that negotiations are still underway, with Thailand respecting the dignity of both nations involved.
The Thai government remains concerned about the welfare of border residents, although progress in the Regional Border Committee (RBC) meetings may not cover all areas due to jurisdictional limitations. General Nattapol mentioned that ongoing discussions with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Tea Sayha are aimed at resolving outstanding negotiation terms, though specifics about border openings remain confidential.
General Nattapol emphasized the importance of mutual respect, stating that despite the absence of a formal Defense Minister, operations would continue without interruptions. He reassured the public that security measures remain intact, supported by the National Security Council's resolution empowering the Thai-Cambodian Border Administration Task Force to adjust border measures as needed.
Furthermore, General Nattapol expressed his commitment to resolving border issues efficiently and thanked the Prime Minister for his support. Despite the leadership transition, he remains focused on addressing the concerns of border communities and safeguarding national sovereignty with resolve.
In response to queries about Cambodia's move to bring territorial disputes to the International Court of Justice, General Nattapol confirmed ongoing coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He emphasized the ministry's meticulous preparation for potential legal challenges, underscoring the collaborative approach between relevant agencies to address both immediate and long-term concerns. The NCPO, while informed, will not interfere with these proceedings.