Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed reports concerning Cambodian fake news as baseless and malicious. The Ministry refuted claims that Cambodian officials were harassing illegal immigrants in Chanthaburi Province. It emphasized adherence to international law and human rights, urging the United States to separate trade negotiations from national security matters.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nikorndej Plangkura, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, revealed ongoing visits by observers to the Thai-Cambodian border since November 14th. These visits aim to gather facts from officials and residents in Sisaket and Sa Kaeo Provinces, reflecting Thailand’s sincerity in the matter.
On November 17th, an AOT team discovered new landmines in Chong An Ma, Ubon Ratchathani Province. They also visited Sisaket Province and Prasat Khana in Kab Choeng District, Surin Province, before November 18th. Mr. Nikorndej addressed the dissemination of false information from Cambodia, including untrue accusations of Thai soldiers planning attacks in Bodhisattva Province.
Allegations of Thai officials assaulting and harassing illegal immigrants in Chanthaburi Province were firmly denied. Investigations confirmed no such incidents occurred, and Thai officials acted in accordance with the law. The Ministry urged the public and media to verify information before spreading it to prevent misunderstandings.
Mr. Nikorndej discussed Thailand’s coordination with the United States following a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on November 14th. The Prime Minister sent a letter to President Trump on November 18th, highlighting Cambodia’s violation of the Joint Declaration and urging the US to pressure Cambodia to comply. The Ministry emphasized separating trade negotiations from security issues.
Regarding trade negotiations, Mr. Nikorndej stated that the Prime Minister and President Trump discussed separating security concerns from trade talks. The Prime Minister awaits an official response from the US regarding tariff negotiations. The Ministry’s focus remains on demining operations and ensuring Cambodia’s compliance with international agreements.
The Prime Minister’s conversation with President Trump on November 14, 2015, was pivotal, reinforcing Thailand’s stance on separating trade and security issues. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of demining efforts for compliance with the Joint Declaration and urged the US to play a constructive role in pressuring Cambodia.
The Prime Minister also posted on Facebook, emphasizing the focus on demining and the separation of trade and security issues. Mr. Nikorndej reiterated that trade negotiations should remain positive and separate from security concerns, encouraging constructive international pressure on Cambodia.