Bangkok: The Thai Director of the Joint Operations Centre (JIC) has emphasized that Thailand is not seeking global belief but rather a verification of facts amid accusations from Cambodian media. The statement came in response to analyst comments alleging that Thailand disregarded the United Nations (UN) following objections to a report by Tom Andrews, Director of the Joint International Cooperation Agency (JIC). The Director stressed respect for the UN and human rights, while also highlighting the need to consider perspectives from both sides of the border.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force and Director of the Thai-Cambodian Situation Information Center, addressed the controversy by affirming that Thailand does not have problems with the UN and has prioritized its interests. He stated that Thailand's actions are in line with protecting facts by respecting the UN and that questioning the available information is within their rights. He emphasized that not responding to a draft statement within two days should not be interpreted as disrespecting the UN.
Air Chief Marshal Praphas highlighted that separating facts from interpretation is crucial, especially when national security, borders, military, human rights, and international law are involved. He stated that accuracy is more important than speed in national-level matters. He also responded to the figure of 650,000 displaced Cambodians cited by Mr. Andrews, questioning the data's source and verification process, insisting on the need for explainable and verifiable figures.
The JIC Director urged all media to distinguish between fact, finding, and opinion, noting that accusations regarding sovereignty and borders require evidence and adherence to international law. He reiterated Thailand's commitment to peaceful resolution mechanisms and invited impartial investigations to verify facts, stressing that Thailand's position is based on evidence, not mere assertions.
In closing, the JIC Director emphasized Thailand's respect for the UN and readiness for scrutiny, urging fairness and the consideration of facts from both sides of the border in any final report to the United Nations Human Rights Council. He concluded by stating that Thailand seeks an examination of evidence, not blind belief in its assertions.