Bangkok: "Big Lek" has accelerated discussions with the General Border Committee (GBC) to create a plan for evacuating Cambodians from Ban Nong Chan before Parliament dissolves. He confirmed that the Army Commander is fully prepared for combat. The Prime Minister is scheduled to visit Buriram on December 4 to assess readiness.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nattapol Nakphanit, the Minister of Defense, addressed the ongoing situation at the Thai-Cambodian border. He highlighted the implementation of three primary measures: mine clearance, temporary markers installation at Ban Nong Ya Kaeo and Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo Province, and the construction of a border fence in Chanthaburi and Trat, with progress reported in all areas. He assured that any invasive actions by Cambodian forces against Thai sovereignty would not be tolerated.
When questioned about potential discussions with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, General Tea Seriha, regarding the GBC meeting aimed at evacuating Cambodians from Ban Nong Chan, General Nattapol noted that bomb disposal at Ban Nong Ya Kaeo has been completed, while some areas at Ban Nong Chan remain under work. Temporary markers are expected to be installed before the New Year, with the aim for synchronization between both areas. He emphasized the importance of completing the work concurrently in order to conduct a single Joint Border Demarcation (JBC) meeting, where temporary marker images will be presented for consideration. This meeting will not establish a permanent border, but the Thai-Cambodian JBC committee has endorsed it. A subsequent GBC meeting will address actions by Cambodians violating Thai sovereignty, with both forums expected to commence in early 2026.
General Nattapol also addressed concerns regarding the dissolution of Parliament, initially scheduled for January 31, 2026. He expressed his commitment to expediting the process, assuring that the caretaker government could continue, especially regarding security matters. He urged the public to remain calm as the process is proceeding smoothly without conflicts.
In response to inquiries about the Army Commander's declaration of being 100% combat ready on the Thai-Cambodian front, General Nattapol affirmed the necessity of preparedness for any scenario. He reiterated that his security policy emphasizes peace but stressed readiness in the event of national sovereignty or interest intrusions, to ensure public peace of mind.
Regarding the Prime Minister's potential visit to Buriram Province to meet with local administrative organizations, General Nattapol clarified that the visit is intended to assess the preparedness of the Interior Ministry and administrative departments in case of an incident. He confirmed the military's readiness and emphasized the need for administrative departments to be equally prepared to protect the public. Although there are no immediate signs of conflict, vigilance remains crucial given the provocative actions of Cambodian troops.
General Nattapol also touched upon Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew's participation in the Ottawa State Council meeting, suggesting that progress is anticipated following the submission of relevant matters in August, with expectations of emerging results.