Bangkok: The Prime Minister is unfazed by recent claims from U.S. President Donald Trump, who accused Thailand of initiating the conflict with Cambodia. The Prime Minister has firmly stated that Thailand did not start the dispute at the Thai-Cambodian border, emphasizing that the nation was invaded first. He remains confident that all countries are maintaining a neutral stance and that the issue will be resolved through bilateral discussions.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the reports of Trump’s allegations, stressing that the truth of the matter is well-known and there is no cause for worry. He reiterated that Thailand was the party under attack and responded solely to defend its sovereignty. He highlighted that Thailand is not taking sides, as neutrality is the stance of all nations involved. Ultimately, this is an issue that Thailand and the opposing party must resolve together.
Following a Cabinet meeting, it was disclosed that General Natthaphol Nakpanich, Minister of Defence, and Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, discussed preparations for the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting scheduled for tomorrow in Chanthaburi Province.
Mr. Sihasak addressed reports that the Cambodian GBC Secretariat had expressed a desire to relocate the meeting to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He clarified that, based on the latest information, the meeting will still occur in Chanthaburi without any specific attendance conditions. However, should Cambodia present any conditions, they will be open for discussion at the meeting. Thailand also has its own conditions, but ultimately, negotiations will be necessary.
Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, revealed that the Prime Minister expressed ongoing concern over the unresolved situation at the Thai-Cambodian border during the Cabinet meeting. He noted that many people have been displaced to various refugee camps and that compensation funds have yet to reach those affected. The Prime Minister urged the Cabinet to expedite the compensation process, emphasizing that each shelter is heavily populated. He instructed the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) to register evacuees to facilitate compensation.