Chanthaburi: Progress has been made on a 5-step plan to construct a fence along the Thai-Cambodian border, specifically between boundary markers 52-59 in the Chanthaburi-Trat area. The project, expected to take 15 days, includes the installation of temporary boundary markers.
According to Thai News Agency, the initiative, supervised by the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command (CBTDC) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to solidify the boundary line and reduce potential conflicts. Mr. Prasarn Prasarnvinitchai from the Thai side and Cambodian representatives have agreed on technical instructions for the project.
The plan’s first step involves certifying the framework of authority under the Thai-Cambodian Border Convention, allowing for the construction of the fence along the agreed boundary line. The Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) will issue a “Letter of Approval in Principle” and appoint a “Technical Sub-Committee” to oversee the project.
In step two, a revised Technical Instruction (TI) will be prepared with the Royal Thai Survey Department and a joint survey team. This revision will clarify that the survey and temporary stake setting aim to establish a fence line between the agreed boundary markers.
Step three involves the actual survey of the boundary and placement of temporary markers by a joint Thai-Cambodian team. They will use advanced equipment to ensure the boundary line is accurately defined, with temporary markers placed every 50-100 meters. Drone aerial photography will support map preparation, and the results will be documented and approved by relevant authorities.
The fourth step includes preparing and signing a “Memorandum of Understanding on Border Fence Construction” (MOU), which outlines the terms for constructing a border control fence. This agreement, involving the Ministry of Defense, the Royal Thai Navy, and other agencies, aims to prevent illegal activities without altering the existing border.
Finally, step five focuses on joint construction and inspection in the Chanthaburi-Trat area. The Royal Thai Navy and related units will ensure the fence is built safely and legally, meeting the requirements of the 1907 Border Convention and the 2000 MOU. The project anticipates reducing military confrontations and establishing a clear reference point for both countries.