Bangkok: Thammasat University academics have praised Cambodian Prime Minister Sihasak's role at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), noting its impact on transforming Cambodia's image from a victim to a nation seen as disregarding international rules.

According to Thai News Agency, Associate Professor Dulyapak Precharatch, President of the Association for Regional Studies and a lecturer in Southeast Asian Studies at Thammasat University, commented on the role of Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs. He highlighted Thailand's effective diplomatic role during the UNHRC meeting in Geneva, Switzerland.

The strategy by Thailand aimed to portray Cambodia's accusations of aggression on international stages as contributing to Cambodia's perceived disrespect for the peace process, potentially leading to further conflict in international relations.

"The Thai presentation raised questions on the international stage about whether Cambodia would choose the path of peace or continue the conflict through litigation and accusations, without genuinely cooperating with Thailand and exhibiting periodic provocative behavior. This limits Cambodia's proactive diplomacy," Associate Professor Dulyapak said.

Thammasat University scholars also compared the roles of Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew with Mr. Prak Sokhonn, the Cambodian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, noting that the Thai side demonstrated more proficiency in diplomatic skills and issue presentation to the international community.

In past meetings concerning the Ottawa Convention on landmines, Thailand has clearly expressed its position on the international stage, which has put Cambodia in a challenging situation.

Associate Professor Dulyapak concluded that during Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkaew's tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thailand pursued a more proactive diplomatic approach and responded effectively to Cambodia's accusations on the international stage.