Thai media reported on September 25 that Anutin Charnvirakul, described in the source as Thailand’s prime minister and interior minister, gave his first public response to former Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen’s border remarks during an interview at Vajira Hospital in Bangkok.
Anutin said Thailand would not compromise on sovereignty and that border decisions, whether led by the military or National Security Council, would prioritise Thai interests. He said martial law was in force at the border and the Second Army Region commander was directly responsible; a command handover would not change the overall arrangements.
Responding to Hun Sen’s statement that even a 100-year closure would not affect Cambodia, Anutin said speaking his mind could affect bilateral relations and that he hoped it would not reach that point. He said Thailand had closed crossings and that talks could not continue if Cambodia kept deploying heavy weapons, drones and bombs near the border. He suggested measures might be extended to additional public facilities and services.
Anutin also accused Cambodia of not implementing agreements from the General Border Committee meeting in Sihanoukville, while saying Thailand had evidence it had met its commitments. He called on third countries to urge Cambodia to comply in order to preserve regional peace.
Addressing border residents’ concerns, he said he was particularly concerned about public safety as prime minister and had instructed the Interior Ministry to prepare evacuation centres and accelerate relief payments.
He reiterated that Thailand was willing to hold talks with Cambodia but would not compromise on sovereignty or security.
Compiled by this station.
