Bangkok: Supajee Suthamphan, Thailand’s Commerce Minister, has expressed confidence that the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia will not be leveraged by the United States as a means to pressure Thailand on trade tariffs. She asserted that Thailand was not the instigator of the conflict and confirmed that negotiations with the U.S. would proceed as planned.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supajee addressed concerns regarding the timeline for trade tariff negotiations with the United States, stating that she had not yet determined if they would be completed this year. She noted there had been no updates from the U.S. Trade Representative and emphasized that discussions with relevant agencies were ongoing, with no deviation in the negotiation process despite the renewed border clashes. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to offer further clarification on the matter.
Ms. Supajee downplayed fears that the United States might use the conflict to exert pressure on Thailand, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ effective handling of the situation. She clarified that Thailand did not initiate the conflict, comparing it to a previous incident involving landmines, where Thailand was not at fault. She added that the Ministry’s communication with the United Nations was clear and unlikely to be misinterpreted as an instigation.
The Minister emphasized the importance of focusing on national sovereignty and the safety of citizens, as well as supporting the military during this period. She reiterated that the current priority should be on these issues rather than potential tariff pressures.