Bangkok: Academics highlight Thailand's diplomatic advantages and image enhancement as a peaceful state following the recent Thailand-Cambodia agreement.
According to Thai News Agency, this strategic move reflects a shift from defensive to offensive diplomacy and underscores Thailand's commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
Assistant Professor Chettha Sap-yen from Nawamintharachudhiraj University explained that the Thai Prime Minister's signing of the "Joint Declaration by the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand" in Kuala Lumpur signifies "Integrated Security Administration." The involvement of regional mechanisms such as ASEAN and participation from the United States adds legitimacy to resolving the conflict, reducing the likelihood of agreement violations due to the presence of multiple parties.
Asst. Prof. Chettha emphasized that this agreement illustrates the Thai government's dedication to using "peaceful means" to address conflicts, favoring negotiation over force. This approach aims to transform border areas into zones of security, economic, and social cooperation, thereby enhancing Thailand's global image.
To maintain the positive momentum, it is recommended that Thailand actively promote the Border Committee (AOT) and the Thai-Cambodian Border Committee mechanisms. Establishing proactive public communication strategies is crucial to preventing misinformation that could affect bilateral relations.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Chettha noted that the agreement provides Thailand with both a "diplomatic image" and a "strategic advantage" as a peaceful influence within ASEAN. By utilizing regional mechanisms, Thailand can counterbalance major powers and ease border tensions while preserving sovereignty. This marks a transition to proactive security management, offering a sustainable model for Thailand's future foreign policy.