Stockholm: Sweden's Defense Minister reiterated the close relationship with Thailand, pointing out that the use of the Gripen is a right of self-defense under international law. Swedish Defence Minister Paul Jonsson gave an interview on bilateral cooperation between Sweden and Thailand, emphasizing the deepening of relations following the signing of the latest cooperation agreement. He also commented on the use of Gripen fighter jets during the recent conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border.
According to Thai News Agency, 'This (the latest agreement) deepens bilateral cooperation between Sweden and Thailand, and I am very proud that we have a large number of Thais living in Sweden, over 80,000, and over 200,000 Swedes visiting Thailand every year. So it is only natural that we will further strengthen our defense cooperation,' Mr. Jonsson said.
The Swedish Defence Minister also pointed out that the cooperation will benefit Thai society more broadly, beyond the security aspect. He said, "I think this cooperation will benefit a wider segment of Thai society as well, because the compensation package from Saab (the Gripen manufacturer) will mean investments in education, research and development, and Thailand's agriculture sector."
When asked by reporters about the impact of Thailand's deployment of Gripen fighter jets during the conflict with Cambodia, Mr. Jonsson clearly replied that Thailand has the right to use Gripen under international law for self-defense. "Of course, that's your choice, as long as you use it in accordance with the UN Charter and international law."
Mr. Yonsson also commented that both Thailand and Cambodia are making efforts to de-escalate the situation and welcomed the establishment of a joint commission and the involvement of ASEAN observers, which is in the interests of the people of both countries. "Of course, Thailand, like any other country, has the right to self-defense, and we respect that," Mr. Yonsson said.