Bangkok: Academics point out that the Thai-Cambodian peace agreement does not put Thailand at a disadvantage, reflecting the patience and prudence of the Thai government, which has used a strategy of closing borders and leading the world to surround it, pressuring Cambodia to agree to sign.
According to Thai News Agency, Assistant Professor Wanwichit Boonprong, a lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science at Rangsit University, commented on the Thai Prime Minister and Cambodian leader’s signing of the Thailand-Cambodia Peace Agreement. He stated that there is no disadvantage to Thailand in the joint declaration. On the contrary, the document clearly reflects that “peace is something that humanity should uphold.”
Asst. Prof. Wanwichit stated that although Thai-Cambodian relations have not yet returned to normal, and despite the United States acting as witness to the “cessation,” Thailand is prudent enough to wait for Cambodia to comply with the four-point agreement proposed by Thailand. Only when all points are fully implemented will normal relations be able to move forward along the ladder of trust.
The four agreements discussed on the international stage are not new, but have been consistently pushed by Thailand. These include the withdrawal of heavy weapons, border management, crackdown on scammer networks, and landmine clearance. All of these proposals are from Thailand, as Thailand is directly affected.
Asst. Prof. Wanwichit also stated that the signing of this matter was not accidental, but rather the result of the “perseverance and continuous efforts” of both the front-line and back-line teams. This was particularly evident after the change of government, when Thailand took a more assertive stance, both in terms of diplomatic toughness and inclusiveness towards Cambodia. Furthermore, Thailand’s position as a regional hub for combating scam networks has also been taken, both directly and indirectly, by Thailand’s side.
“Cambodia itself should know that if it continues to renege or refuses to sign the agreement proposed by Thailand, it may face even greater regional and international pressure in the future,” said Asst. Prof. Wanwichit.
Asst. Prof. Wanwichit stated that the Thai Prime Minister’s decision to sign this agreement demonstrates his “confidence in ASEAN mechanisms” and his commitment to maintaining regional stability under the watchful eye of host Malaysia, without relying on any other country’s authority. Although the US President attended the signing ceremony, China is closely monitoring ASEAN’s stance.
“Peace can only be achieved if Cambodia takes the first step. If all these criteria are met, Thailand will be confident and a truly peaceful atmosphere will eventually emerge,” said Asst. Prof. Wanwichit.