BANGKOK – In a significant move to de-escalate mounting tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai held his first direct talks with Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, General Tea Seiha, on June 5.

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The meeting, seen as a critical diplomatic step, aimed to ease friction after a series of confrontations between troops near the disputed area. Phumtham reassured Cambodia of Thailand’s stance against armed conflict, reiterating that the Thai government remains committed to peaceful resolution and regional stability.

During the talks, Phumtham proposed that both sides reposition their forces back to a previously agreed zone near the Trimuk Pavilion, about 150 to 200 meters away from the current flashpoint. He also reaffirmed Thailand’s long-standing position of not recognizing the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in territorial disputes, a stance in place since 1960.

Cambodian officials did not formally accept the proposal during the meeting but acknowledged its practical value. The matter will reportedly be forwarded to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Senate President Hun Sen for further consideration.

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The Thai defense chief confirmed that the Thai-Cambodian Joint Border Committee (JBC) meeting scheduled for June 14 will proceed as planned. He also suggested that if dialogue stalls, a field visit by JBC representatives to the contested area could help break the impasse. Meanwhile, Thailand’s internal security councils and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are developing strategic responses to the evolving situation.

Addressing domestic backlash over images circulated from the border meeting, Phumtham dismissed accusations that diplomacy undermines national dignity. He emphasized that provocative rhetoric advocating war is counterproductive and irresponsible, noting that while Thailand is prepared for all contingencies, conflict would only bring suffering to both sides—especially to soldiers and civilians on the ground.

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The bilateral talks mark a cautious but important step toward preventing escalation and sustaining dialogue amid one of Southeast Asia’s longest-running border disputes.

-Thailand News (TN)