BANGKOK, Thailand – Nikorndej Balankura, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has addressed reports of protests by Cambodian citizens near Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo Province. These protests followed a statement from Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, which criticized Thai government actions in the area, alleging difficulties for Cambodian communities living in Thai territory.
According to Nikorndej, all measures implemented by Thai authorities in the area are necessary to ensure security and safety for people within Thailand’s sovereign territory. He emphasized that these measures are lawful, fully conform to both Thai law and international standards, and have been carried out within Thai sovereign territory. The process has been clear, with advance notice and careful consideration at each step by the Ad Hoc Centre for Thailand – Cambodia Border Situation, with the approval of the National Security Council.
Nikorndej further stated that mobilizing and inciting Cambodian citizens to protest and create unrest in the area constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement previously discussed in GBC and RBC meetings. He described these actions as irresponsible, unconstructive, and not prioritizing the interests and safety of the public.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on the Cambodian side to halt its efforts to incite protests and refrain from any actions that could hinder efforts to reduce tensions and find peaceful, joint solutions. (NNT)
