Geneva: "Maris" has revealed Sweden's growing concerns over the current situation in Thailand and Cambodia, particularly the use of human shields by Cambodia to provoke protests. This issue is set to be discussed at the United Nations meeting in Geneva tomorrow. Sweden insists on holding back its ambassador until Cambodia demonstrates sincerity in resolving the issue.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Maris Sengiampong, Minister of Foreign Affairs, after bilateral talks with Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard, highlighted concerns about the Thai-Cambodian border area in Ban Nong Chan, Sa Kaeo Province. The ongoing provocations involving civilians have complicated military operations and increased tensions, a situation requiring local civilian authorities' intervention to prevent conflict.
During the discussions, Mr. Maris emphasized that Cambodia's actions are a violation of the UN Charter, using civilians as shields to escalate tensions. The Swedish Foreign Minister was in agreement with the concerns expressed. At tomorrow's UN meeting in Geneva, Mr. Maris plans to address the issue, stressing that using civilians to create or escalate tensions is inappropriate and contravenes international agreements and laws.
On the topic of improving Thai-Cambodian relations, Mr. Maris stated that Cambodia needs to prove its commitment to resolving the situation. Despite the absence of military conflict, the ongoing use of civilians as pressure tools undermines confidence in Cambodia's sincerity. Within the UN framework, countries must follow international agreements and laws, prioritizing peaceful negotiations. Consequently, there will be no return of the Thai ambassador to Cambodia until genuine efforts to resolve the issue are observed.
Mr. Maris confirmed that using human shields violates international law and expressed concerns to the Swedish Foreign Minister about how such actions foster mistrust, affecting international relations. Regarding the forthcoming Thailand-Cambodia Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting, which Thailand will host, Mr. Maris mentioned the need for discussions to establish a roadmap for border negotiations and reduce tensions, emphasizing the unacceptability of using civilians as leverage.
Addressing the potential impact on Thai-Cambodian relations and communication with local populations, Mr. Maris likened the situation to family conflicts, underscoring the need for peaceful coexistence. The Thai government aims for dialogue and peaceful solutions, supported by military and foreign measures that promote sincerity and peace. Until confidence in Cambodia's intentions is restored, the situation will remain under review.
When questioned about the possibility of provocation leading to non-peaceful reactions among Thai citizens, Mr. Maris advised mindfulness and restraint, reinforcing the importance of peaceful approaches.