BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Defense has confirmed that no immediate opening of border checkpoints with Cambodia will take place, despite progress made during the Special Session of the General Border Committee (GBC) held in Koh Kong province on September 10. Preparations are being made for possible future relaxation measures, but only after thorough security assessments and agreement from both sides.
The session produced five key agreements. Both countries will withdraw heavy weapons within three weeks under the supervision of the GBC and the Regional Border Committee (RBC), launch joint landmine clearance operations within a month, and establish a joint task force to combat online scam networks within a week. Thailand has already provided Cambodia with information on more than 60 scam centers. Other agreements included managing disputed border areas through the Joint Boundary Commission and the RBC, with special attention to Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province, and exploring limited cargo transport relaxation measures.
Officials stated that checkpoint relaxation applies only to cargo transport, not people. Initially, cargo movement will be restricted to a few trips per day and may expand to 20–30 trips if conditions permit and stakeholders agree. Details such as cargo types, operating hours, and quotas will be discussed through the RBC with input from the Chamber of Commerce, Customs Department, Ministry of Commerce, and Ministry of Industry.
Any relaxation measures will be applied according to security conditions in different zones. Zone 1, covering Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Buri Ram, is classified as high tension. Zone 2, covering Sa Kaeo, is considered moderate. Zone 3, covering Chanthaburi and Trat, is low tension and will serve as the pilot area for cargo relaxation.
Defending sovereignty remains the top priority, while also protecting the livelihoods of Thai citizens. Border tensions in recent months have caused casualties, property damage, and economic hardship for farmers, wage earners, laborers, and small businesses struggling with debt. Authorities said these pressures are both immediate and long-term.
The Ministry of Defence noted that cooperation with Cambodia must focus on building sustainable peace and stability along the border while easing economic burdens for local communities, ensuring both security and fairness are maintained. (NNT)
