Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand has expressed its disappointment with Cambodia over its perceived lack of cooperation in resolving ongoing border disputes. The Ministry highlighted that Cambodia's actions have not aligned with the spirit of good neighborliness and bilateral mechanisms aimed at reducing tensions between the two nations.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement at 10:30 p.m. regarding the outcomes of the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting. The statement, initially planned for a press conference, noted progress on four key issues. Both nations agreed on the locations of 45 boundary markers and endorsed the use of LiDAR technology to expedite surveying and demarcation. This agreement also included amending the Master Plan on Surveying and Demarcating the Land Boundary, initially established in 2003.
The statement further outlined an agreement to prepare technical specifications for a survey in a specific section, from Khao Satta Som to Boundary Marker 1 in Sisaket Province. The Joint Technical Sub-Committee (JTSC) was tasked with developing these specifications and preparing an aerial photographic map for the JBC.
The Thai Ministry expressed deep disappointment over Cambodia's continued referral of four disputed areas to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), suggesting this reflects a lack of sincerity in utilizing existing bilateral mechanisms. The Thai Chair emphasized Thailand's stance on addressing all issues recorded in the Agreed Minutes Outcome Document of the meeting, underscoring the necessity of Thailand's actions as self-defense under international law.
Thailand urged Cambodia to engage in peaceful negotiations and adhere to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 2000, which discourages actions that could alter the border environment. Both nations were called upon to avoid disseminating misleading information and to utilize other bilateral cooperation mechanisms to maintain border peace and facilitate movement.
The meeting, however, did not address Cambodia's actions at the ICJ or the 1:200000 map of the Siam-Indochina Demarcation Committee, focusing instead on aerial mapping as part of the border survey plan. A special meeting of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission is scheduled for September 2025.
In response to recent developments, Mr. Sorapong Sriyanong, Acting Deputy Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC), convened an urgent meeting to discuss Cambodia's escalation, including its cessation of internet and electricity purchases from Thailand. The discussion will cover the implications of Cambodia's measures and future recommendations.
Additionally, Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra is set to meet with relevant agencies to discuss the JBC meeting outcomes, after postponing her scheduled meeting with Miss World 2025, Suchata Chuangsri.
The Royal Thai Army has reiterated its commitment to protecting national sovereignty, emphasizing adherence to peaceful methods and readiness to defend the border if necessary. The army has pledged to support proactive diplomacy while ensuring public safety and reducing conflicts.