Bangkok: Government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat has urged Cambodia to apologize to the Thai people amidst ongoing border issues, while also announcing plans to implement six strategies to resolve these problems and contend with US tariffs.
According to Thai News Agency, Siripong emphasized that leaders from the United States and Malaysia understand the complex situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, with both nations acting as observers to the Joint Declaration. Siripong reassured that the tariff negotiations remain unaffected by the border issues and are set to continue. He conveyed that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has been actively involved in reviewing the situation since yesterday, addressing concerns about the impact on US tariff negotiations.
Siripong highlighted that a letter from the United States Trade Representative requested a temporary halt to tariff negotiations until the border situation improves. The Prime Minister argued to the US President that Cambodia had violated the declaration through mine-laying activities, contravening Article 2 of the agreement, and insisted on a peaceful resolution. He stressed Cambodia’s need to admit responsibility and apologize to the Thai people. An understanding was reportedly reached with the US and Malaysian leaders, affirming that border management issues should be kept separate from tariff discussions.
Reiterating the Thai government’s commitment to protecting national interests and sovereignty, Siripong stated that the Prime Minister and his ministers strive to address each situation as it arises, with plans in place to manage sudden incidents. He confirmed that mutual understanding has been achieved with both Malaysia and the United States regarding the current issues.
Siripong addressed concerns about the Prime Minister challenging US leadership, clarifying that the Prime Minister’s responses were logical and aimed at separating border issues from trade negotiations. He highlighted the importance of exploring new markets while maintaining necessary trade with the US, as confirmed by the Minister of Commerce.
Siripong noted there is no set timeframe for Cambodia’s actions, as Thailand’s next steps hinge on Cambodia’s response. The Ministry of Defense plans to propose a meeting to discuss a new action plan addressing six key issues along the Thai-Cambodian border. Detailed announcements will be made at the Santi Maitri Building, Government House.
Regarding Thailand’s response to misinformation from Cambodia, Siripong asserted Thailand’s duty to present factual clarifications swiftly. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively working to foster understanding with various countries, and ASEAN member states have been informed of the situation, with confirmations from observers about the presence of new landmines. He acknowledged an apology from a Malaysian news agency for previous misinformation and expressed hope for continued accurate reporting by other media outlets.