BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand and Cambodia convened the Special Meeting of the Joint Commission on Demarcation for Land Boundary (JBC) today (Oct 21), co-chaired by Prasas Prasasvinitchai, Co-Chair of the JBC on the Thai side, and Lam Chea, Minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Border Affairs and Co-Chair on the Cambodian side. Before the official opening, both delegations held a small-group discussion to exchange views and outline the meeting’s agenda.
In his opening statement, Prasas expressed condolences over the loss of civilian lives and the Thai soldiers who perished in the line of duty. He stressed the urgency of advancing negotiations to peacefully settle outstanding boundary issues and clarify demarcation lines, emphasizing that such efforts are essential for easing tensions and restoring stability along the border. The Thai side reiterated its firm stance against indiscriminate attacks, the use of anti-personnel landmines, and any acts of provocation.
The meeting’s agenda focuses on key issues assigned by the first Special Session of the General Border Committee (GBC) held on September 10, 2025. Discussions cover the cases of Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo, as well as security measures under the JBC’s authority to clarify matters related to border safety and cooperation. These efforts demonstrate Thailand’s determination to address boundary challenges with Cambodia through established bilateral mechanisms and to report progress to the ongoing GBC meeting in Kuala Lumpur.
Another important topic under review is the revision of the 2003 Terms of Reference (TOR) for the production of orthophoto maps using LiDAR technology. The two sides are also working to identify priority areas for boundary demarcation where preliminary agreement has already been achieved. (NNT)
