Urgent! ‘Phumtham’ Issues a Statement: Reveals that discussions with the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense contained some discrepancies in the publicly released information.
He expresses regret that proposals aimed at reducing confrontation and fostering peace were rejected. Furthermore, Cambodia has increased its military presence, escalating tensions. Thailand, in response, must enhance its measures and boost its forces. He firmly asserts that he has never agreed with any actions that violate Thailand’s sovereignty.
Statement from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense
On June 5, 2025, I held discussions with the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense to exchange views on the border situation in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo Province.
Following the discussions, certain publicly released information was found to be inconsistent with the actual content of the meeting. It is regrettable that constructive proposals, which could have led to reduced confrontation and peace, were rejected. Moreover, military reinforcements have been deployed, further heightening tensions.
Consequently, we must also implement additional measures and strengthen our forces accordingly.
However, I would like to emphasize the stance, as discussed with the Prime Minister, as follows:
1. Thailand will not tolerate any violations of its sovereignty under any circumstances and is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty.
2. I reaffirm my support for the military in fulfilling its duties and extend my encouragement to all personnel currently engaged in protecting Thailand’s territory. I stress that all Thai operations will prioritize the lives, safety, and well-being of border residents and the dedicated personnel serving in the area.
3. The Thai government has not recognized the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) since 1960 and remains committed to bilateral negotiations under the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which both parties previously agreed upon. The Joint Border Committee (JBC) should serve as the platform for peaceful resolution at the earliest opportunity.
4. Thailand reiterates its previous stance, urging both sides to restore troop levels to their original positions as practiced in 2024 to mitigate tensions and prevent further confrontation.
Finally, I firmly declare that I have never supported any actions that infringe upon Thailand’s sovereignty. The government and military stand ready to defend and uphold the nation’s sovereignty to the fullest extent.
**Phumtham Wechayachai**
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense
June 7, 2025, 07:00 AM
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
