The build-up of forces is linked to Phnom Penh’s refusal to withdraw troops from the disputed Mum Bay area after clashes
The Thai authorities intend to strengthen their defences after Cambodia refused to withdraw troops from the disputed border area.
Thai Defence Minister Pumtham Veachai announced the government’s determination to defend the country’s sovereignty and strengthen its defence capabilities in response to Cambodia’s refusal to withdraw its troops from the disputed border area. Negotiations between Phumtham Wongsuwan and his Cambodian counterpart, General Tea Seiha, took place in the Aranyaprathet district of Sa Kaeo province, Thailand.
According to the Phnom Penh Post, the Cambodian Ministry of Defence rejected Thailand’s request to withdraw troops from the Mum Bay area, where clashes took place on 28 May. The Cambodian side claims that the troops have been on Cambodian sovereign territory for a long time.
Phumtham Veachachai expressed regret over Cambodia’s rejection of proposals aimed at reducing tensions and establishing peace. He also noted that Cambodia’s military build-up is increasing tensions in the region.
In this regard, according to Phumtham Veachaiya, Thailand intends to strengthen its defences. He highlighted four main positions that were discussed with Prime Minister Phethongtharn Chinavat:
- First, Thailand will not allow its sovereignty to be violated under any circumstances.
- Second, he expressed full support for the military in carrying out their duties and encouragement for all personnel guarding Thai territory.
- Third, the Thai government has maintained its position of rejecting the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice since 1960 and remains committed to bilateral negotiations under the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding, considering the Joint Border Committee to be the best platform for peaceful dispute resolution.
- Fourthly, Thailand insists that both sides return to the positions that existed in 2024 in order to reduce tensions and prevent further confrontation.
The statement also emphasises that Phumtham Veachai does not support actions that violate Thailand’s sovereignty and that the government and the military are ready to jointly defend the country to the fullest extent.
In response to the growing tensions on the border, the Thai army announced that it would take control of the opening and closing of border crossing points. Cambodia, in turn, has strengthened its military presence and deployed additional equipment to the border area.
READ FOR MORE ARTICLES HERE
READ FOR MORE ARTICLES HERE
