Phnom penh: The Minister of Defense has accepted a proposal from Cambodia to clear five minefields from Thailand, following Thailand’s initial proposal of 13 areas, which did not include Wat Ta Kwai. The Defense Minister emphasized that while peaceful negotiations will be prioritized, the use of force will remain a last resort.

According to Thai News Agency, General Nataphol Nakphanit, the Minister of Defense, addressed the situation concerning the Ta Kwai Temple in Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province, asserting it is part of Thai sovereignty. He outlined five key agreements reached with Cambodia to address pressing issues.

The first priority is the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the area, stressing the need to prevent civilian suffering on both sides. He highlighted the importance of Cambodia clearing mines, as six Thai soldiers suffered injuries from mines laid by the Cambodian side. While ASEAN Observer Mission (AOT) oversees territories, Thailand must clear mines within its own borders.

For border management, General Nataphol emphasized the need to reclaim Thai-owned areas under a joint agreement with Cambodia, particularly in Khok Sung District, Sa Kaeo Province. The construction of a border fence along the 798-kilometer Thai-Cambodian border is also planned, considering topographical elements like watersheds and waterways. An electronic fence is proposed to address sovereignty concerns.

General Nataphol also mentioned combating scams as a critical task, involving various Thai government agencies, with military support available. He reiterated that peaceful resolutions through bilateral mechanisms would be prioritized, with any use of force being a last resort.

General Nataphol acknowledged other priorities, such as the Ta Kwai Temple, confirming it as Thai territory. He maintained that peaceful negotiations would continue, with the Thai-Cambodian Joint Border Commission (JBC) being prepared for these discussions. He assured that the government and military are not neglecting these issues, and efforts will proceed based on circumstances.

Regarding the Khona Temple, where Cambodia has constructed stairs and a cable car encroaching on Thai territory, General Nataphol listed these as additional priorities. He committed to submitting protest letters and using peaceful means to resolve these matters, emphasizing that force would only be necessary if unavoidable.