Bangkok: Thailand has reiterated its adherence to international principles in managing the ongoing conflict in Nong Ya Kaew, as tensions escalate between Thailand and Cambodia. Anutin, in his address to the ASEAN Chair, emphasized Thailand's commitment to international standards and condemned Cambodia's actions, including the alleged use of civilians as human shields, which he described as inhumane and a distortion of the truth. He urged Cambodia to demonstrate genuine efforts in resolving the issue.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorndej Plankul, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided insights into the tense situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, particularly in Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, Khok Sung District, Sa Kaeo Province. He reported that Thai barriers were dismantled and clashes led to injuries among Thai officials, marking a violation of Thai law. Despite provocations, Thailand has remained committed to the ceasefire agreement, viewing it as a stepping stone towards peace. He underscored that the establishment of barriers was a sovereign act to enhance security. Thai officials have exercised patience and communicated with Cambodian citizens, yet interventions by Thai riot control were ultimately necessary and conducted in line with international standards.
The Thai perspective highlights the use of civilians as human shields by Cambodia as a breach of international law and a disregard for human safety. While both nations have pledged to maintain the ceasefire, Thailand accuses Cambodia of pursuing a path of violence instead of peace. The Thai government installed barbed wire fences to prevent conflict and ensure the safety of citizens on both sides, aiming to avoid violence and potential casualties.
Mr. Nikorndej expressed disappointment over Cambodia's choice of conflict and accused Cambodian leadership of inciting public unrest and distorting facts, actions deemed unconstructive and lacking in integrity. He criticized Cambodia's recent maneuvers, including international complaints, as strategic staging aimed at attracting global attention. He reiterated that Cambodia's actions defy the ceasefire agreement, which calls for bilateral discussions.
The ASEAN Chair's meeting with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the need to maintain communication channels between the two countries, a practice Thailand has consistently upheld. Thailand continues to engage in bilateral discussions, responding to international queries with empirical evidence and adhering to global principles. Thailand's correspondence with the Secretary-General asserted the legitimacy of its administration over areas previously designated as Cambodian refugee zones, in collaboration with the United Nations. Ongoing discussions between governors from both sides aim to resolve misunderstandings and address related issues.
Thailand remains devoted to peaceful conflict resolution through legal and international frameworks, utilizing all available bilateral mechanisms. The Thai government hopes Cambodia will use forthcoming international forums, such as the United Nations, ASEAN Summit, and APEC meetings, to show sincerity in addressing these issues. Thailand calls on Cambodia to cease actions that escalate tensions and seek collaborative solutions.