Bangkok: “Panithan” keeps an eye on the JBC meeting to discuss a ceasefire mechanism, advising Thailand to proactively engage the US, China, and Japan to help defuse Cambodia’s conflict.
According to Thai News Agency, Associate Professor Dr. Panithan Wattanayagorn, an expert in security and foreign affairs, was interviewed on the “Share the News” program on MCOT NEWS FM 100.5 regarding yesterday evening’s Joint Border Commission (JBC) meeting. This meeting is being closely watched for its potential ceasefire agreement, a goal that has been attempted three times between August and October without reaching a resolution. The limitations of the existing observer mechanism for enforcing ceasefires have made this a key focus of discussion. Therefore, the crucial issue this time is creating an effective ASEAN-oriented mechanism for ministers to formally sign and announce the details, location, and time of the ceasefire to ASEAN.
In practice, proposals include the use of neutral observers or a third country, as wel
l as the use of military satellite technology to create a ‘heavy weapons-free zone’ or ‘mainstream combat zone.’ Thailand’s approach is to maintain forces in controlled areas and prevent the opposing side from reinforcing its ranks, emphasizing that actions must neutralize the opposing side as a threat. If a clearly defined demilitarized zone, similar to those in Korea or Cyprus, is not established, Thailand may need to deploy a heavy force to suppress and prevent the situation from escalating.
However, Thailand’s major problem on the international stage is its image and Cambodia’s proactive approach, which gives it an advantage. This is due to Cambodia’s use of world-class consulting firms and its reliance on the International Court of Justice’s ruling on the Preah Vihear temple. As a result, the international community and major powers perceive Cambodia as being at a disadvantage, even though Thailand has significantly superior military capabilities. Thailand is seen as the one exerting pressure first. The
refore, Thailand must urgently adjust its diplomatic strategy and provide clear information on its military operations, demonstrating direct self-defense, directly to the major powers’ key agencies without intermediaries.
Regarding a strategic solution, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Panithan stated that Thailand needs to negotiate with the major powers supporting Cambodia-China, Japan, and the United States-to help pressure and “switch off” the conflict, especially the United States, which is increasing its role in Cambodia to counter China’s influence. Thailand must urgently restore and intensify bilateral relations and mutual benefits, as Cambodia currently prioritizes serving the interests of major powers, gaining preferential treatment in negotiations. This is a crucial challenge that Thailand must address alongside military operations.