Bangkok: "Bhumtham" presided over a special meeting with the National Security Council and Cabinet to assess the Thai-Cambodian ceasefire agreement. The meeting focused on evaluating Cambodia's sincerity and the potential implications of the ceasefire, as highlighted by the three levels of criteria set by Big Lek. The agreement, which has moved beyond the General Border Committee's (GBC) Secretary-General's Office, is based on eight proposals. Despite the agreement, concerns remain about the implementation and the potential use of MOU 43 as a basis for accusations against Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, acting as Prime Minister, chaired the meeting to endorse the GBC meeting agreement. This meeting followed the Thai GBC Secretariat's previous discussions in Malaysia. The meeting witnessed participation from key ministers, including General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense; Mr. Chusak, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office; and Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister.
General Natthapol shared insights before the National Security Council meeting, noting that the secretariat's discussions with the GBC were smooth, with both parties approving proposals. However, the details are pending review to align with approximately 13-14 points approved by the NSC. He viewed Cambodia's commitment to the ceasefire as encouraging, contingent on the secretariat-level agreement.
The agreement's sincerity will be gauged across three levels. Level one has been met, and the ministerial meeting will serve as a level two measure. The final level will determine practical implementation. Cambodia's response typically involves reviewing Thai proposals, leading to a conclusion that will be revisited soon.
General Nattapol emphasized national interests, sovereignty, and the focus on security, particularly the ceasefire, during the GBC meeting chaired by the defense ministers of both countries. Despite other areas such as civilian compensation, the border dispute remains outside the current discussion scope.
The Acting Prime Minister has instructed the National Security Council Secretary-General to lead meetings to delegate tasks, ensuring public confidence in issue management. The NBTC is concentrating on immediate issues, with government agencies coordinating efforts to prevent normal mechanisms from faltering.
Regarding Cambodia's requests for reconsideration, specifics remain unknown. The conclusion is anticipated shortly. General Nattapol noted that MOU 43 remains advantageous, providing a framework for international accusations against Cambodia.
The framework agreement, still encompassing eight points including the ceasefire, has been accepted by Cambodia. However, recent Cambodian media reports suggest reluctance to accept the terms. General Nattapol stressed the importance of documented consensus and the role of observers in witnessing and overseeing agreement adherence.
The presence of observers is advantageous, providing third-party oversight and ensuring adherence to the agreement. However, General Nattapol acknowledged that discussions ideally should be bilateral.