BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Army has responded to statements made by Cambodia’s permanent representative to the United Nations during a meeting in Geneva on October 13 concerning civilian displacement along the Thai–Cambodian border. Army Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree disputed certain figures presented at the meeting and reaffirmed Thailand’s position on border security, territorial sovereignty, and peaceful negotiations.
Maj. Gen. Winthai explained that the reported figure of more than 650,000 displaced Cambodian civilians represented people evacuated during earlier clashes, rather than those currently unable to return home. He added that nearly 500,000 Thai residents had also been evacuated, with most returning after the December 27, 2025, ceasefire. The Army called for a clear distinction between previous evacuations and ongoing displacement when presenting information to international audiences.
Regarding claims that more than 20,000 people remained unable to return home, the Army cited Thai authorities’ figures of approximately 4,600 people across more than 900 households in three areas of Sa Kaeo province: Ban Nong Chan, Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, and Ban Khlong Phaeng. Thailand maintains that these areas fall under its sovereignty and that settlement-related issues should be addressed through existing laws and the 2000 bilateral memorandum of understanding.
The Royal Thai Army reiterated that border disputes should be resolved through established bilateral mechanisms and peaceful dialogue, with respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also called for accurate reporting of displacement figures and continued attention to civilian safety and humanitarian needs in affected communities. (NNT)
