BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand and Cambodia are set to convene a meeting of the Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary (JBC) in Phnom Penh on June 14, expressing their utmost determination to manage border matters through peaceful dialogue and existing bilateral mechanisms. The meeting follows a series of productive exchanges between military and government officials, which have already led to the easing of tensions and the return of troops to their 2024 positions along key sections of the shared frontier.
Established in 1997 and co-chaired by the foreign ministers of both countries, the JBC serves as the main platform for addressing land boundary issues in accordance with historical treaties and officially recognized maps. It is supported by the Joint Technical Sub-Committee (JTSC), which provides survey coordination, technical assessments, and data analysis. Since its formation, the JBC has convened ten times, with the last session held in Bangkok in 2012.
In addition to the JBC, both nations maintain close cooperation through other mechanisms or units, such as the General Border Committee and the Regional Border Committees, providing military leaders from both sides with an opportunity to oversee specific border zones. This multi-tiered structure has proven valuable in promoting stability and mutual understanding across different regions.
A foundational agreement guiding these efforts is the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding on the Survey and Demarcation of the Land Boundary, also known as MOU 43. It outlines the joint commitment to demarcate the border peacefully, protect the surrounding environment, and resolve any differences through dialogue.
Both governments are approaching the upcoming JBC meeting with goodwill and a shared interest in achieving long-term cooperation. The atmosphere ahead of the talks represents a strong desire on both sides to strengthen bilateral relations, support regional stability, and explore opportunities for joint development in areas of shared interest. (NNT)
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Major General Winthai Suvaree, spokesman for the Royal Thai Army, confirmed that Cambodian military officials led by Lieutenant General Srey Doek met with their Thai counterparts, headed by Major General Sompob Paravej. An agreement was reached for Cambodian troops to return to their original positions, deeper within Cambodian territory, and to fill the strategic trench. Both sides will use the Township Border Committee (TBC) for future management and hold weekly meetings at the site.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that government efforts have improved the situation, confirming that both nations will adjust troop deployments to reduce confrontation. She announced further cooperation through the Joint Border Committee (JBC) on June 14, 2025, aiming to normalize relations. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai praised the mutual efforts, emphasizing the commitment to peace and confirming joint inspections and force adjustments.
Meanwhile, border crossings in several Thai provinces remain quieter, with continued restrictions on operating hours, trade, and travel. Measures prohibit gambling tourism and impose limits on passes and vehicle types.
Meanwhile, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, in a Facebook post on Sunday, clarified that the military adjustment in the Chong Bok area was to prevent large-scale violent clashes through mutual understanding. He stressed that efforts to find a resolution through dialogue have occurred at all levels—from government to frontline commanders—and are now yielding positive results. (TNA)
