Bangkok: "Paethongtarn" has publicly reiterated that Cambodia initiated the conflict, expressing dissatisfaction with Thailand's strict crackdown on call center gangs.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Minister of Culture, addressed the media following a meeting at the Ministry of Culture. The meeting focused on measures to assist those affected by the recent violence in four provinces. Ms. Paethongtarn confirmed Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Vejjayachai's statement that Cambodia's actions constituted a serious breach of international law principles. The violence, which erupted on July 24th, had been initiated by Cambodian forces, she claimed.
Ms. Paethongtarn highlighted observations from foreign media, pointing out that the National Security Council had ordered school closures on the first day of the conflict, suggesting prior knowledge of the impending violence. She questioned whether Cambodian authorities knew in advance about the conflict, given that their schools were not in session that day.
Despite not being able to fulfill her duties currently, Ms. Paethongtarn remains actively informed about the situation. She assured the public that Thailand's military was prepared to respond, mentioning the use of F-16 aircraft in response to Cambodian attacks on Thai communities. The government, military, and security sectors are closely coordinating their response to the situation.
Ms. Paethongtarn emphasized Thailand's commitment to protecting its sovereignty while expressing a desire to avoid violence. She stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had presented evidence of Cambodia's violations of international legal treaties and human rights, resulting in international condemnation. The violence, she asserted, was unequivocally initiated by Cambodia.
In her remarks, Ms. Paethongtarn urged unity among Thai citizens, stressing the need to prioritize external threats over internal conflicts. She called for cooperation among all sectors to foster national cohesion.
Addressing accusations of political manipulation, Ms. Paethongtarn recounted her efforts to combat call center gangs in collaboration with Laos and Myanmar. She revealed that Cambodia was displeased with not being consulted in these efforts, which had successfully reduced call center scams. Despite the initial friction, Ms. Paethongtarn included Cambodia after further discussions, but Cambodia declined the invitation to collaborate.
Reflecting on these events, Ms. Paethongtarn questioned whether the dissatisfaction stemmed from the call center crackdown. She remained resolute in her commitment to addressing issues affecting Thai citizens, affirming that any government, regardless of its leadership, would continue these efforts.