Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the Prime Minister spoke with Trump, emphasizing that Thailand is committed to peace as per the agreement. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the Prime Minister spoke with Trump, stating that Thailand is committed to peace under the agreement. He called on Cambodia to demonstrate its stance and open 13 mine clearance points without obstruction. The Malaysian Prime Minister is ready to seek joint negotiations, taking into account the Thai side’s proposals.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorndej Plangkura, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced the latest developments on the Thai-Cambodian border situation. He stated that last night, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and US President Donald J. Trump had a telephone conversation, with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew also present.
The US President inquired about the latest developments, and the Prime Minister took the opportunity to provide an update to the US President. He emphasized that both sides must adhere to the mutually agreed-upon declaration to achieve peace. Thailand expressed regret that Cambodia had violated the agreements reached between the two sides, particularly on the issue of landmines. It had been agreed that the border would be cleared of mines, including the refusal to install new ones. However, regarding recent events, Cambodia continues to evade the facts, citing unconvincing reasons. The Prime Minister emphasized that he had personally inspected the situation on the ground and could confirm that new landmines had been planted, resulting in serious injuries and the loss of a leg for a Thai soldier on patrol.
Mr. Nikorndej stated that Thailand also invited ASEAN observers (AOT) to the area yesterday to investigate the facts regarding the incident. Responding to the US President’s question about Thailand’s expectations for a resolution to this issue, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to peace. However, Cambodia must acknowledge the facts, take responsibility for the incident, and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Therefore, the next step depends on Cambodia’s stance.
Crucially, 13 areas, previously discussed, must be opened to allow the Thai side to carry out demining operations. Cambodia must not obstruct this, ensuring the safety of both sides. The US President listened with understanding and agreed to discuss the matter with Cambodia. He emphasized that the US and Malaysia are ready to support both sides in moving forward in the peace process.
The US President himself reiterated his intention not to interfere in the bilateral resolution of the two countries’ issues. Regarding Thailand’s most important issues, the Prime Minister clarified that Thailand is committed to a peaceful path, but that in the current situation, he reserves the right to take any necessary action to protect Thailand’s sovereignty.
Regarding the discussion with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the meeting was to coordinate information with the President of the United States. The Malaysian Prime Minister expressed his understanding that, as Malaysia’s ASEAN Chair, he agreed to explore ways to move the peace process forward, taking into account the Thai proposal.
The Prime Minister further informed the Malaysian Prime Minister that he had reiterated to the US President that demining is a key part of the agreements contained in the Kuala Lumpur Declaration. Therefore, the US and Malaysia acknowledged Thailand’s priorities and key issues, including Thailand’s demands.