Ubon ratchathani: The Commander of Army Region 2 has criticized Cambodia for its lack of manners following an incident where Cambodian soldiers disrupted an observation team in the Channel Anma area. During a recent RBC meeting, the Commander revealed that China offered to mediate and assist in negotiations concerning demining efforts. Should Cambodia fail to cooperate, he warned of potential legal actions on an international scale. He further expressed support for the Thai government's decision to prosecute Cambodian leader Hun Sen for alleged war crimes, indicating preparations are underway to gather evidence for submission to authorities.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, who commands the Second Army Region, addressed the provocation by Cambodian soldiers toward the Interim Observer Team (IOT) from eight ASEAN member countries at Chong An Ma in Ubon Ratchathani Province. The Commander described the actions as typical of Cambodian soldiers and symbolic of ongoing disputes, asserting that the area in question remains a contested border, which Thailand claims as its own.
The Second Army Commander contended that the incident could have adverse implications for Cambodia, more so than for Thailand, particularly in terms of diplomatic etiquette. He emphasized the necessity for comprehensive discussions on border issues, including the Chong An Ma encroachment, during upcoming RBC meetings.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin also addressed Cambodia's attempts to claim that the structures in the Chong An Ma area were Cambodian homes, accusing Cambodia of prolonged encroachment. He maintained that no construction should occur near the border until demarcation is complete, and encouraged Cambodia to dismantle any structures themselves.
He expressed confidence in China's role as a mediator, particularly regarding landmine clearance negotiations. Should Cambodia resist such efforts, Lt. Gen. Boonsin stated Thailand would seek to highlight Cambodia's non-compliance on a global stage.
Regarding accusations linking Thailand to staged bombing incidents, the Commander refuted claims, affirming adherence to the Ottawa Convention and denying the use of landmines sourced from the socialist camp, which he said are not employed by Thailand.
When asked about the potential for renewed conflict, Lt. Gen. Boonsin cited Cambodian leadership's policies as pivotal, asserting readiness to defend Thailand if necessary. He also confirmed that Thailand's legal actions against Cambodia for war crimes are aligned with international standards and should be pursued.
The Commander downplayed the likelihood of the RBC meetings being disrupted by these tensions, emphasizing adherence to established frameworks for discussion. He confirmed that the Second Army Region is prepared to support legal proceedings with evidence against Cambodian leaders and ensure representation for injured or deceased soldiers.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin concluded by addressing reports of Cambodia using civilians as human shields, noting the densely populated nature of certain areas and the strategic responses developed by the First Army Region. He reiterated that Cambodian citizens are prohibited from entering Thai border territories such as Chong An Ma.