Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand is intensifying its protests against Cambodia following an incident involving a landmine that injured a Thai soldier. The Ministry is preparing to bring the matter to the international stage at the Geneva forum.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry is protesting Cambodia’s violation of the Thailand-Cambodia Peace Declaration and demanding that Cambodia take responsibility and issue an apology. Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Plangkura emphasized that immediate and comprehensive actions have been undertaken at all levels to address this issue, ensuring there are no unnecessary delays. The Ministry has responded to two separate incidents where Thai soldiers were harmed by Cambodian landmines, prompting the Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, to directly contact his Cambodian counterpart in protest. Consequently, Thailand has dispatched two formal protest letters to Cambodia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has further clarified the situation to key international figures, namely US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, sent correspondence to these leaders, both of whom were witnesses to the signing of the Peace Declaration. The letters emphasized Thailand’s dedication to peaceful negotiations and adherence to the Declaration, while also expressing concern over Cambodia’s actions as a threat to Thailand’s sovereignty and safety. As a result, Thailand is temporarily suspending its implementation of the Declaration, contingent upon Cambodia’s future actions and sincerity.
Mr. Nikorndej detailed that the Prime Minister addressed three core issues with the leaders of the United States and Malaysia. The discussions focused on separating bilateral security matters from trade benefits, seeking Malaysia’s assistance in restoring peace, and urging Cambodia to apologize and take responsibility to prevent future incidents. The leaders acknowledged Thailand’s position, and the Prime Minister urged Cambodia to comply with the Declaration, especially concerning mine clearance.
Further actions by the Ministry include protesting under the Ottawa Convention framework and informing the UN Secretary-General of Cambodia’s recent provocations. The issue was raised at the 22nd Conference of the Parties to the Ottawa Convention in Geneva. Thailand has instructed its global diplomatic network to disseminate information regarding Cambodia’s violations and has engaged with ASEAN observers to assess the situation.
Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to provide detailed clarifications to the international community and media. The Foreign Minister will attend the 4th Indo-Pacific Summit with the EU and meet foreign journalists to present facts and discuss Thailand’s concerns. Additionally, Thailand will host an international meeting on combating cyber fraud in December, following proposals made at the ASEAN Summit. The Ministry remains committed to taking proactive and timely actions across all platforms.