Paris: Mr Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on Tuesday stated that the Cambodian leadership continues to make up stories and accuse Thailand on the international stage. Mr Sihasak addressed the Thailand-Cambodia situation during a UN meeting in France, expressing Thailand's concern over recent remarks by high-ranking Cambodian officials.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr Sihasak stated that these officials have used various international platforms to make statements that undermine bilateral relations, including unfounded and fabricated allegations of Thai territorial encroachment. Mr Sihasak emphasized that if both nations are committed to restoring ties and advancing border trade, such negative behavior on the global stage must cease.
While Thailand wishes to avoid a "tit-for-tat" escalation, he noted it remains necessary to clarify the facts, as Cambodia must realize the international community is already aware of its tendency to invent stories. He further pointed out that while Thailand is focused on moving forward, maintaining a ceasefire, and building mutual trust, progress remains challenging as Cambodia continues to employ its old tactics.
Regarding the situation at the Preah Vihear Temple, Mr. Sihasak discussed the matter with the Director-General of UNESCO, Mr. Khaled Ahmed El-Enany Ali Ezz. He stated that Thailand regrets the damage to the site, noting it could have been avoided had the temple not been used for military purposes or as a weapons depot. He informed UNESCO that using cultural heritage sites for military advantage during conflicts leads to such consequences, while clarifying that Thailand had no intention of causing destruction.
According to Mr. Sihasak, UNESCO expressed understanding of this position and is preparing to dispatch a team to assess the damage.