Geneva: "Maris" is preparing to engage in a significant dialogue with the Ottawa State Party to address issues concerning Cambodia's landmine usage. The aim is to persuade Cambodia to resume clearing its mines and adhere to international law.
According to Thai News Agency, Maris Sngiampong, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, traveled to Geneva to meet with Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights. The meeting was a follow-up to a letter submitted by Cherdchai Chaiwaiwit, Thailand's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York. The letter requested information regarding Cambodia's alleged use of anti-personnel mines on Thai territory, in violation of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, also known as the Ottawa Convention.
The meeting with the Deputy High Commissioner signifies Thailand's dedication to resolving the Thai-Cambodian border conflict through diplomatic means, aligning with international law and the United Nations Charter. Mr. Maris provided documentary and scientific evidence highlighting serious violations of international human rights, such as indiscriminate attacks and the use of civilians as human shields.
The Deputy High Commissioner expressed appreciation for Mr. Maris's visit, which underscored Thailand's earnestness in tackling human rights concerns. She emphasized the detrimental impact of propaganda communications in escalating conflicts and divisions.
Mr. Maris also plans to meet with the Japanese Ambassador to the Disarmament Conference, as well as the UN disarmament chief. These meetings aim to present the incident's facts to key parties of the Ottawa Convention Committee, which oversees the Convention's implementation.
Furthermore, Mr. Maris will engage with donor countries and international civil society organizations involved in demining efforts. The goal is to persuade Cambodia to re-commit to the Ottawa Convention and collaborate with Thailand on demining initiatives.
Thailand will also align with the United Nations Secretary-General's Campaign on Humanitarian Disarmament and Mine Action, reinforcing its commitment to addressing the global issue of anti-personnel mines.