Brussels: Sihasak revealed that several countries at the Indo-Pacific conference asked about the Thai-Cambodian problem, emphasizing that Thailand suspended the peace agreement with Cambodia because of the use of new landmines. He hopes that Cambodia will show responsibility and return to comply with the agreement, clear the mines, and suppress scammers.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeaw, Minister of Foreign Affairs, gave an interview during the Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum, which will be held on November 21, 2015, in Brussels, Belgium. He stated that the Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum, which today included the ASEAN-EU Ministerial Lunch, discussed the evolving global situation, promoting ASEAN relations, and maintaining a world order based on international law and regulations. However, given the proliferation of unilateral measures, trade barriers, and tariffs by the United States, in trade and political negotiations, ASEAN and the EU must strengthen their partnership on free trade between ASEAN and the EU. Progress has been made and results are increasing, including the EU-ASEAN FTA, which Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia are nearing signing. Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia remain, with negotiations underway with ASEAN and the EU.
Reporters asked if any countries had inquired about the situation with Thai soldiers stepping on landmines at the meeting. Mr. Sihasak stated that everyone was concerned and knew what was happening, but he didn't address the issue at the forum today because he believed Thailand and Cambodia should resolve the issue bilaterally. At the forum today, discussions centered on ASEAN and the EU, focusing on developing relations and addressing shared challenges. However, during bilateral discussions with some countries, such as the Estonian Foreign Minister, he explained the situation. Thailand's suspension of operations under the peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia was due to Cambodian violations of landmines, marking the seventh time this has occurred.
Mr. Sihasak emphasized that when such incidents occur, operations must be suspended, but efforts to clear mines continue with the aim of achieving a mine-free border. He noted that Cambodia is not obstructing these efforts and highlighted US President Trump's recognition of the importance of addressing mines. If Thailand addresses mines, integration of import taxes and cooperation in border suppression could follow. Technical work has commenced at the claimant locations of Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, with temporary markers being placed.
Mr. Sihasak revealed that Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister was present at the meeting but did not address the landmine issue directly, focusing instead on strengthening ASEAN and EU ties. He stated that Thailand is willing to resolve the issue without involving the international community unless prompted by accusations from Cambodia.
During discussions with the Estonian Foreign Minister, Mr. Sihasak reiterated Thailand's commitment to resolving the situation peacefully and abiding by the agreement. He expressed hope that Cambodia would take responsibility for the incident. He insisted that Thailand has not been disadvantaged, maintaining their position due to the violation of the agreement regarding landmines.
Mr. Sihasak noted that the meeting's Indo-Pacific context made it inappropriate to address the issue directly, but he is ready to provide clarification if asked. Thailand has already clarified the situation through the United Nations and Ottawa member states.
Despite the issues with Cambodia, Mr. Sihasak emphasized Thailand's active role in pursuing its interests internationally, highlighting the need to utilize various platforms to their fullest potential.