BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow expressed appreciation for China’s willingness to facilitate negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia, while stressing the importance of direct bilateral dialogue between the two countries. The statement addresses the current state of Thai-Cambodian relations and limited communication channels. He said that, after the leaders met at the ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Thailand proposed bilateral negotiations to resolve all issues and build mutual trust. However, Cambodia has initiated compulsory conciliation on maritime boundaries. The Thai government maintains that bilateral discussions should be the primary approach and that mechanisms under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea should be considered only if initial talks do not yield a resolution.
The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged China’s goodwill and commitment to neutrality, and reiterated that Thai-Cambodian issues require direct, face-to-face engagement. He also expressed concern about Cambodian media reports on the delivery of Chinese tanks. Given the sensitive state of border security and the current ceasefire, he noted that sharing information that favors one side can harm the diplomatic atmosphere and urged all parties to act with sensitivity. The Deputy Prime Minister also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to high-quality, sustainable, and legally compliant investments. He noted that although illicit foreign operations account for a small share of overall Chinese investment, they have significantly affected Thai public sentiment. He called on Chinese authorities to actively cooperate to address these issues, thereby maintaining mutual confidence and strengthening the bilateral relationship. (NNT)
