Bangkok: The Senate's Military Affairs Committee has recommended the establishment of a Border Emergency Situation Administration Center in response to ongoing issues along the Thai-Cambodian border. This recommendation follows the committee's collection of academic opinions and field visits aimed at addressing sovereignty concerns and protecting Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, Gen. Sawat Tasana, Senator and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Military and State Security, emphasized the need for careful evaluation of the complex border problems that have persisted between Thailand and Cambodia. He highlighted the sensitivity of the matter, which necessitates discussion and academic input to provide effective recommendations to the government.
Gen. Sawat noted discrepancies in the cohesion of military and government actions in Thailand compared to Cambodia's united front. He stressed the importance of compiling these insights to present to the government, ensuring the best protection of the nation's sovereignty.
The committee's discussions also touched on the challenges faced by soldiers due to inadequate infrastructure on the Thai side of the border. Unlike Cambodia, which has established roads to border villages, Thailand's soldiers often face logistical difficulties, necessitating the use of helicopters or mules for transport. Gen. Sawat highlighted the need for legal considerations to address these infrastructural issues.
Regarding Cambodia's approach to raising the matter with the International Court of Justice, Gen. Sawat viewed it as a strategic move, emphasizing the need for Thailand to prepare thoroughly for negotiations. He also addressed the recent closure of the border crossing at Chanthaburi province by Cambodia and the ban on Thai movies and products, suggesting these actions were part of a strategy to gain bargaining power ahead of the Joint Border Committee (JBC) meeting.
Gen. Sawat further commented on the Thai government's need for a firm stance in negotiations to create leverage. He refrained from directly criticizing the Prime Minister's approach but implied that a stronger position might be necessary.
The potential influence of France, given its historical ties with Cambodia, was another point of concern. Gen. Sawat acknowledged that Cambodia's ability to seek support from France could pose a challenge for Thailand.
Finally, Gen. Sawat reiterated the necessity of establishing a special emergency management center for the Thai-Cambodian border, highlighting the need for a coordinated approach involving multiple sectors to address security issues efficiently.