Bangkok: The Minister of Defense has announced a strategic plan comprising four critical policies that are to be implemented within the next four months. The first action involves dispatching the Deputy Minister of Defense to Sisaket Province to investigate reported incidents of Cambodian soldiers firing rifles. The Minister assured that despite the non-extension of the Center for the Prevention and Suppression of Crimes against Persons (COP), operations will continue smoothly under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s supervision, who also oversees security and the Ministry of the Interior.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nataphol Nakphanit, the Minister of Defense, expressed his gratitude following the cabinet’s audience with His Majesty the King. The Prime Minister led the cabinet to take the oath of office before presenting government policy. General Nataphol shared his appreciation for His Majesty’s royal advice and expressed his commitment to performing his duties with utmost dedication. He emphasized that his primary focus would be on security matters, while other issues would be managed by the Ministry of Defense.
General Natthapol has tasked Deputy Defense Minister Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen with visiting Sisaket Province in response to the Cambodian military’s recent activities at Phou Phi Pass, which violated the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) agreement. Upon the Deputy Minister’s return, discussions will outline his responsibilities. General Natthapol expressed confidence in smooth proceedings, citing Lt. Gen. Adul’s familiarity with local issues as a former commander of the Second Army Region.
Furthermore, General Natthapol stated that the Special Operations Center for the Administration of the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation (SOC) is no longer required. The National Security Council (NSC) will now handle public communications, with the Prime Minister overseeing security concerns. This restructuring aligns the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Defense, facilitating efficient security issue management. He also highlighted the strong economic team supporting the government. In the upcoming months, the Ministry of Defense will address Thai-Cambodian border issues, focus on southern border provinces, and tackle challenges on the Thai-Myanmar border, including closed border crossings. He emphasized the need to assist those affected by natural disasters, especially in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province.
General Natthapol also noted the need to prepare for the 2027 budget request, utilizing the existing Ministry of Defense white paper. The policy statement, scheduled for presentation to Parliament on September 29th, will be concise, focusing on deliverable outcomes to avoid criticism for unmet expectations.