Bangkok: The House Security Committee has urged the Ministry of Defence to prepare and implement proactive measures in response to Cambodia's application to the International Court of Justice. The committee also recommended enhancing measures to suppress call centers, cut off financial resources, and increase negotiation efforts with the Joint Border Commission (JBC).
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP of the Prachachon Party and chairman of the House of Representatives' Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy and Reform, emphasized the importance of these measures following a meeting on the Thai-Cambodian border situation. The confidential meeting, which received cooperation from Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense, highlighted the need for strategic preparations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was absent due to its focus on the upcoming JBC meeting.
Mr. Rangsiman highlighted Cambodia's preparations to escalate the conflict to the International Court of Justice, urging the Deputy Minister of Defense to be vigilant. He mentioned Thailand's previous withdrawal from the Preah Vihear Temple issue but stressed the need for preparedness with international legal support and mechanisms. The committee has advised the government to prepare both defensively and proactively.
One significant concern discussed was the issue of bunkers due to Cambodia's acquisition of modern weapons with greater range. Mr. Rangsiman stressed the importance of public preparedness, urging the government to build sufficient bunkers to protect citizens in case of armed conflict. The Prime Minister was called upon to allocate a central budget for these safety measures.
The committee observed the establishment of mechanisms like the National Security Council but noted the need for detailed strategies and plans. Mr. Rangsiman emphasized the importance of bilateral mechanisms and economic cooperation to prevent conflict escalation, urging Thailand to use these channels effectively.
Despite the tense situation, Mr. Rangsiman praised Maj. Gen. Nat Sri-in for his role in reducing tensions. He reiterated the necessity of bilateral efforts and unity among policymakers to address the crisis. The committee plans to hold a meeting on June 26 to discuss further preparations for the World Court and additional bilateral negotiation measures, involving experts from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international law academia.