Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the People's Party, has emphasized that closing the Thai-Cambodian border checkpoints may not be the optimal solution to the ongoing conflict. Instead, he proposed a strategy centered on three key principles: joint mine clearance, removal of heavy weapons, and a crackdown on scammer gangs.
According to Thai News Agency, Rangsiman addressed the Security Committee's stance on the military's border checkpoint closures, which were implemented as part of economic pressure tactics to bring Cambodia to the negotiating table. However, these measures have not led to significant negotiations, as Cambodia's primary income source is not trade but scams. To tackle these issues, Rangsiman stressed the importance of adhering to the principles emphasized by the Thai GBC: joint mine clearance, heavy weapons withdrawal, and suppression of scammer gangs. He noted that sincere agreements based on these principles could pave the way for easing restrictions and improving bilateral relations.
Rangsiman further explained that current difficulties in border issues stem from a lack of good relations. He highlighted that border checkpoints symbolize positive international relations, and their closure affects those who benefit from them. The solution, he argued, lies not in merely opening or closing the checkpoints but in addressing the underlying issues that harm international relations.
When questioned about the potential economic impact of border closures, Rangsiman acknowledged Thailand's historical trade surplus with Cambodia. However, he emphasized the need to consider broader security concerns and the overall picture, including negotiation methods. He stressed the importance of focusing on achieving goals rather than solely on economic figures.
Rangsiman proposed that cracking down on scammer gangs is crucial to resolving the issue at hand. He questioned how relations could improve while scams damage international relations and lead to financial losses for many Thais. He argued that as long as these scams persist, international trade relations will remain strained, and normal negotiations will be hindered. Therefore, he concluded that all issues must be addressed simultaneously and cannot be separated.