Bangkok: The commanders of the Royal Thai Armed Forces have expressed their agreement with the government's three proposals: "Close, Build, Fight," which will serve as a reference measure for future commanders in protecting the nation. General Songwit Noonpakdee, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, shared these insights following his final meeting with the armed forces commanders prior to his retirement.
According to Thai News Agency, General Songwit paid tribute to the soldiers who have died, emphasizing that many were low-ranking officers from impoverished backgrounds. He stressed the army's ongoing responsibility to care for their families and highlighted the enduring mission of protecting Thailand against national threats. The Commander-in-Chief elaborated on the three government proposals:
The proposal to "Close" recommends closing the border, either permanently or temporarily, in response to threats to national sovereignty and security. The "Build" initiative involves constructing a fence along the border to prevent invasions and protect both civilians and soldiers. The "Fight" proposal focuses on using military force appropriately, in line with both national and international laws, to preserve sovereignty.
General Songwit emphasized the importance of combat readiness, noting that retirement extensions have been granted to ensure that decisions do not burden incoming commanders. He commended the commanders for their commitment to these proposals, which are key to national defense.
The issue of some fences being dismantled by Cambodia was addressed by General Songwit, who highlighted the importance of crowd control methods approved by the Thai court. The national police chief has committed to collaborating with border security forces to enforce laws and manage the situation effectively.
General Songwit also mentioned the role of new military commanders in implementing the proposals, stressing the importance of continuity in military duties. The border closure proposal is seen as a fundamental principle to address threats, particularly from Cambodia, which has been identified as a concern since June 6th.
The National Police Chief will develop necessary measures to manage the situation, with long-term strategies to be determined by the Ministry of Interior and the Border Patrol Police. General Songwit reiterated the commitment to operating within legal frameworks and emphasized the public's recognition of military sacrifices.
In conclusion, General Songwit asserted Thailand's readiness to defend its sovereignty, advocating for legal measures, deterrence, and preparedness to fight if needed. He highlighted the military's role in maintaining security, with the construction of border fences being a necessary measure in line with security policies.