SURIN, Thailand – Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, revealed a clearer understanding of the situation after visiting Surin province to inspect damage caused by attacks from Cambodia. The information will be used for international briefings. He stated that Cambodia used long-range weapons to attack civilian areas, causing casualties, and confirmed Thailand’s readiness to coordinate with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the United Nations (UN) for site inspections.
Maris told reporters that Thailand already has comprehensive evidence of Cambodia’s violations of human rights and international law. His visit to Surin allowed him to see the actual damage and gather additional information, including briefings from local officials who described attacks on targets far from the border. This evidence will be used in international explanations to highlight Cambodia’s use of long-range weapons that directly impact civilians, targeting non-military sites. He also mentioned reports of soldiers stepping on landmines along the border.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Phumtham Wechayachai has ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to clearly express disappointment and opposition to the use of weapons and landmines prohibited under the Ottawa Convention. Maris affirmed that Thailand strictly follows international law and the UN Charter, and has consistently sought to negotiate through bilateral mechanisms to resolve tensions. The success of recent General Border Committee (GBC) talks encouraged Cambodia to return to dialogue, using accepted frameworks such as the Joint Border Committee (JBC), Regional Border Committee (RBC), and GBC, which are recognized worldwide.
Maris assured those caring for affected citizens that ASEAN and friendly countries support Thailand’s approach to conflict resolution according to international standards, encouraging officials to continue their effective work with confidence.
Regarding ASEAN observers to monitor the ceasefire, Maris said that the mechanisms Thailand has long requested are now accepted, reassuring both countries and the global community. During his recent trip to New York, he stressed that the issue involves only the two countries, which must resolve it themselves, supported by the international community. He added that the RBC will be the primary platform for dialogue if violations occur.
On the possibility of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the UN visiting the area, Maris confirmed ongoing coordination and readiness to facilitate their presence. He highlighted the government’s proactive policy to contact the ICRC after clashes affecting civilians and noted that the UN offices in Geneva and New York, along with several foreign diplomats, have expressed interest in visiting. Thailand is arranging for these visits accordingly. (TNA)
