Bangkok: "Bhumtham" emphasized that the Thai-Cambodian border issue will be handled according to procedures. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, addressed the reopening of the Thai-Cambodian border checkpoint. This follows the Second Army Region Commander's announcement that the checkpoint would remain closed until his retirement in September. Phumtham stated that the government has clear guidelines and emphasized the importance of waiting for the General Border Committee (GBC) and Regional Border Committee (RBC) meetings to proceed in accordance with the established process.
According to Thai News Agency, Phumtham also commented on the proposal from some citizens advocating for the construction of a permanent border wall. He expressed the need to prioritize negotiations before making any decisions on such matters. Additionally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reached out to Cambodian supporters, requesting them to withdraw their support, following Thailand's protest alleging Cambodia's violation of the Ottawa Treaty. This issue will be a key focus in the upcoming RBC and GBC meetings.
The Thai government has been actively pursuing legal actions against various organizations, with some entities already holding meetings to discuss these issues. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, and evidence is being meticulously gathered for timely use. Thailand has engaged with international organizations and invited ambassadors to visit the affected areas. This consistent, procedural approach has bolstered Thailand's international standing and recognition.
In a separate matter concerning a soldier who shot and injured two civilians in Surin Province, Phumtham stressed the importance of monitoring the situation closely. Officials from various sectors, including the Department of Mental Health, have been dispatched to support soldiers and personnel in the area experiencing stress.