Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement concerning the "Ban Nong Chan" area, which once served as a temporary shelter for Cambodians. The statement underscores Thailand's longstanding tolerance, while accusing Cambodia of malicious behavior, insincerity, and territorial encroachment.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs supports the Royal Thai Army's stance regarding the Ban Nong Chan area in Sa Kaeo Province. The site was originally a refuge for Cambodians escaping conflict, but Cambodia has since expanded its community in violation of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Thai government has consistently opposed this encroachment and reiterated its key points.
Thailand has shown restraint for many years and is committed to resolving differences through bilateral mechanisms like the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). Meanwhile, the Ministry criticizes Cambodia for unlawfully using its people to infringe on Thai territory. The Ministry claims that Cambodia's actions exploit Thailand's past humanitarian assistance, revealing what it describes as Cambodia's true malicious intent.
On the issue of barbed wire installation within Thai borders, the Ministry clarifies that this is a protective measure to uphold Thai sovereignty, ensure public safety, and prevent further Cambodian incursions and the potential laying of mines. The Ministry asserts that these actions do not breach the agreement from the extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on August 7, 2025, where both nations agreed to avoid military infrastructure expansion beyond their territories.