Anning: The Minister of Foreign Affairs declared the intention to leverage the Mekong-Lancang summit to address ongoing issues with Cambodia. The Minister highlighted that Cambodia initiated recent hostilities and plans to send foreign diplomats to the border to increase international scrutiny and pressure Cambodia to act with sincerity.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Maris Sngiampong, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed these concerns following the 10th Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Anning, Yunnan Province, China. He detailed to foreign ministers the continuous violations of Thailand's sovereignty by Cambodia, which have led to clashes and significant losses. He accused Cambodia of preemptive attacks on civilian targets, breaching international agreements, while maintaining that Thailand's responses have been limited and compliant with international law.
Mr. Maris highlighted Thailand's successful diplomatic efforts in persuading Cambodia to agree to bilateral negotiations involving the JBC, RBC, and GBC, despite Cambodia's initial resistance. He stressed the need for continued peaceful discussions supported by multiple nations.
The Minister also raised concerns about Thai soldiers injured by landmines secretly planted by Cambodia on Thai soil, calling for international support and urging Cambodia to cooperate in demining efforts. Although Cambodia has yet to comply, Thailand remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens through ongoing demining initiatives.
During the summit, Mr. Maris accepted an invitation from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for informal trilateral talks involving Thailand, China, and Cambodia. The talks aim to bring Cambodia back to the negotiating table and address issues like the landmine incidents. Minister Wang Yi affirmed China's support for Thailand's demining efforts and offered technological assistance to ensure border security, encouraging Cambodia's cooperation.
Tomorrow, Mr. Maris plans to lead a delegation to the border area, aiming to engage the international community in understanding the situation and increasing pressure on Cambodia to demonstrate genuine cooperation.
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