Bangkok: Ambassador Prasat apologized to the media for the delay in concluding the JBC meeting. He confirmed the meeting went smoothly, but declined to elaborate on the details, fearing miscommunication.
According to Thai News Agency, Ambassador and Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Border Affairs, Mr. Prasarn Prasarnvinitchai, who is also the Chairman of the Thai JBC, gave an informal interview before the official announcement of the JBC meeting. He mentioned that he was reviewing the meeting summary documents and had not yet conducted a formal press conference, as the meeting was still incomplete. He expressed sympathy for the media, who had been waiting since the morning to cover the news. The meeting, initially expected to conclude at 3:00 PM, was delayed significantly and ended around 7:00 PM. Mr. Prasarnvinitchai noted that the document review process was still ongoing and would require an additional 15-30 minutes before signing. He apologized to the media, explaining that only a few key is
sues had been addressed, which led to the initial expectation of a 3:00 PM conclusion.
When questioned about the reasons behind the meeting’s delay, Mr. Prasart explained that while certain issues had been discussed, details could not be shared. He mentioned that previous press conferences had resulted in inconsistent information and conflicts, prompting a decision to refrain from releasing details this time. Instead, a press conference would later provide an overview of the topics discussed. He emphasized that the details would first be presented to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, would then present them to the government. Due to the sensitive nature of the information, it could not currently be disclosed to the media. Following government approval, a press conference would be organized to inform the public.
When asked if the meeting proceeded smoothly, Mr. Prasart stated, “It was good. They were straightforward. Each side had their own approach,
inherited from the government, on what to say, how to speak, and what their stance was. We exchanged views frankly, which is what we have always done at JBC meetings. However, because the details were sensitive, we had to discuss the matter with our superiors, and they had to discuss it with their superiors.”
Reporters inquired about the specific issues discussed during the meeting, to which Mr. Prasart replied that he was already aware of the important issues concerning Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaew before attending the meeting. He also touched upon previous efforts, assessing the correctness of boundary markers and the potential for repairs or further developments. He added that more details on these topics would be announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at a later press conference.
When reporters attempted to question him about the construction of a fence along the Thai-Cambodian border, Mr. Prasart cautioned, “Wait a minute. Otherwise, the meeting will be canceled. I won’t be able to sign the
documents.” He then apologized once more to the media and returned to the meeting.