Bangkok: "Big Lek" emphasized that Thai soldiers must exercise patience in response to Cambodian provocations while accompanying diplomatic missions in the disputed area. He reiterated that Thailand will not increase the number of ASEAN temporary observer delegation (IoT) personnel requested by Cambodia. Approval has been given for the acquisition of additional military equipment, ammunition, and drones, which will proceed without delay.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nattapol Nakphanit, the Deputy Minister of Defense and acting Minister of Defense, addressed the dissatisfaction and obstruction faced by the Cambodian military during the deployment of the ASEAN temporary observer delegation to the Chong An Ma area in Ubon Ratchathani Province. He acknowledged that discussions with Cambodia will be held, even though he has yet to fully grasp the situation due to the recent conclusion of a Cabinet meeting. The decision to deploy the IoT was previously agreed upon during a General Border Committee (GBC) meeting.
General Nattapol disclosed that he and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, communicated with Mr. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, who played a mediating role in the negotiations. While Cambodia requested an increase in IoT personnel to manage their workload, Thailand opted to maintain the existing numbers and suggested utilizing embassy staff temporarily.
In response to potential future provocations by Cambodia, such as using civilians as human shields or destroying barbed wire fences, General Nattapol stressed the importance of patience and avoiding the use of weapons. He highlighted that ASEAN is monitoring the situation through the IoT mechanisms.
Regarding public demands for a permanent barbed wire border fence, General Nattapol mentioned that budget constraints necessitate prioritization between funding for fencing and acquiring military equipment. He clarified that barbed wire serves merely as a barrier to alleviate military responsibilities along the border.
Budget requests for the Thai-Cambodian and Thai-Malaysian border areas have been made in the past but were not allocated. General Nattapol stated that he has requested weapons, ammunition, and unmanned aerial vehicles for the Thai-Cambodian border area, coordinating with the Cabinet and Ministry of Finance to ensure timely procurement. He assured that most purchases have already been made and emphasized the need to expedite the process to avoid delays, with all sectors prepared to support these efforts. Approval for two or three items was granted last week.