Press Conference by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand

on Developments on the Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation

Wednesday, 11 June 2025

MFA Press Conference Room and via MFA Facebook/TIKTOK LIVE

1. Today, the Thai side held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting. Prior to the meeting, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa met with Mr. Prasat Prasatwinijchai, the Thai Chair of the Commission, regarding the upcoming JBC and conveyed three policy directives for his important task:
   
   (1) As the Thai side has already taken actions to reduce tensions in the area, the JBC should therefore build on this progress to enable the people on both sides of the border to live together peacefully, and ensure lasting peace and tranquility along the border. The JBC, together with other existing bilateral mechanisms, namely the GBC and RBC, are the most effective tools for resolving the issues;
   
   (2) The negotiations must bring positive developments in the boundary line discussions, so that both sides can have a clear mutual understanding, paving the way for sustainable solutions; and
   
   (3) Most importantly, the Thai side must continue to uphold the sovereignty of Thailand, without compromising its territorial integrity under any circumstances.
   
   
2. Under the UN framework, there are several mechanisms for resolving disputes between two countries. However, both countries are expected to negotiate bilaterally as a priority, as this is the most effective and appropriate way to address tensions. Therefore, Thailand reaffirms its commitment to the existing bilateral mechanisms and diplomatic means to resolve issues between the two countries, in line with international norms and practices.

3. Thailand has a clear policy of using bilateral mechanisms for joint solutions to these issues. It must be reiterated that Thailand has never recognized the compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) since 1960.

4. Since the clash between Thai and Cambodian soldiers at Chong Bok, Ubon Ratchathani Province, the Prime Minister has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate closely with the Ministry of Defense in discussions with the Cambodian side. This has resulted in effective alignment between military operations and diplomatic measures. The Foreign Minister also expressed confidence in the Thai armed forces' capability to manage the situation on the ground to the best of their ability.

5. The goal of this JBC meeting is to further intensify efforts so that areas not yet clearly demarcated can become zones where both sides are able to conduct joint activities.

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