SURIN, THAILAND – Thailand signaled readiness for border talks with Cambodia but tied negotiations to clear procedures and mutual preparation.
Thailand: Dialogue yes, but not under time pressure
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said Thailand was prepared to negotiate with Cambodia on border issues, provided this took place under correct procedures and with mutual willingness. He rejected reports that senior Cambodian politicians were pushing Thailand into immediate talks and described this as unacceptable pressure.
“No unilateral scheduling”: Bangkok sets conditions
“Thailand is not afraid of negotiations. But talks cannot be scheduled unilaterally by one side,”
said Sihasak.
He added that if Cambodia was seriously interested in dialogue, it should coordinate with Thailand to find a time that would be suitable for both sides.
Internal preparation: Negotiating team and JBC structures
According to the minister, Thailand first had to complete internal processes, including appointing a negotiating team and forming the Thai delegation to the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). He pointed out that Cambodia had already sought to initiate talks earlier, before Thailand’s government had been fully established.
Initial preparatory talks instead of immediate JBC negotiations
Sihasak stressed that negotiations had to depend on genuine readiness, and he left open whether the current pressure truly aimed at constructive exchanges. As a possible starting point, he mentioned discussions on preparatory questions before any formal negotiations at JBC level.
Unified line: Foreign Ministry, security agencies and military
He said border negotiations required a unified national position involving not only the Foreign Ministry but also security agencies and the military.
“The context has changed. We must reassess the situation and ensure that all sides – especially security and military units – are in agreement before we proceed,”
said Sihasak.
Border sites Prasat Ta Kwai and Hill 350: No date yet for reopening
Meanwhile, a source from the Royal Thai Army said there was still no timetable for reopening the two border sites Prasat Ta Kwai and Hill 350 to the public. Ongoing security assessments were cited as the reason, and the decision would depend on the overall situation and could be made when commanders considered the timing appropriate.
Songkran crowds and restoration plans: Safety first
The sites in Phanom Dong Rak district in Surin province drew particular attention during the Songkran holidays, when more than 14,000 visitors were counted between 13 and 16 April over four days. The Fine Arts Department had already carried out initial on-site surveys for the restoration of the historic structures, but budget allocations and security checks had to be completed before repairs could begin.