BANGKOK, Thailand – Major General Nat Sri-In, Deputy Commander of Thailand’s 2nd Army Region, posted five key remarks on Facebook reflecting his concern over the ongoing border tensions with Cambodia. Below is a summary of his post:
1.
“The governments of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Kingdom of Cambodia believe that demarcating the land boundary between the two countries will help resolve conflicts arising from border disputes, strengthen the already friendly relations, and support cooperation between the peoples of both nations.”
Remark: Good intentions?
2.
“In the spirit of this goodwill, the two governments established the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) in 1997 as the main mechanism to conduct surveys and set land boundary markers.”
Remark: In line with international norms and mature diplomatic thinking?
3.
“In 2000, both sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU43) regarding survey and demarcation. Article 3(1)(c) states that the JBC is responsible for ‘producing maps showing land boundaries based on surveyed and demarcated markers.’”
Remark: This likely means a new map and boundary markers drawn along the correct watershed line, as agreed upon by treaty and convention?
4.
“Article 5 of MOU43 states: ‘To facilitate effective joint land boundary surveying, both sides shall refrain from any action that may change the environment in the border area.’”
Remark: Since MOU43, Cambodia has violated it over 600 times—building casinos, structures, roads, farming. Thailand protested many times, but got little cooperation. Most recently, they set fire to the Sala Trimuk pavilion and dug trenches that crossed into Thai territory. Talks failed to make them withdraw, leading to clashes. Is this how good neighbors behave?
5.
“Article 8 of MOU43 states: ‘Any disputes arising from the interpretation or implementation of this memorandum shall be resolved peacefully through consultation and negotiation.’”
Remark: If we’re already talking peacefully, why go to the International Court of Justice? Is this immature defiance from a young nation? Should we throw out all agreements and let chaos reign before we mature? (TNA)
