BANGKOK — Thailand’s Ministry of Defence confirmed on Thursday that all border checkpoints with Cambodia will remain closed indefinitely, with any future reopening contingent on Phnom Penh’s adherence to recently agreed de-escalation measures. The announcement follows a high-stakes meeting of the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) on September 10, where both sides outlined steps to reduce tensions but stopped short of reopening crossings.

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Ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Surasan Khongsiri stated that acting Defence Minister General Natthapon Nakpanich emphasized the dual priorities of protecting national sovereignty and safeguarding public livelihoods during the talks. While both countries agreed to collaborate on joint mine clearance within one month, draft a timeline for withdrawing heavy weapons from border areas within three weeks, and establish a first-ever task force to combat online scams, tangible progress must precede any relaxation of border restrictions.

The ministry clarified that any future border reopening would be limited to commercial freight vehicles—not civilian travel—and implemented gradually based on a three-zone tension classification. Pilot programs may begin in low-tension areas like Chanthaburi and Trat provinces, but only after Cambodia demonstrates “sincerity and compliance” with its commitments.

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Rear Admiral Surasan underscored that prolonged border closures have severely impacted Thai farmers and businesses but stressed that resolution depends entirely on Cambodia’s follow-through. The two nations also agreed to clarify disputed border lines and manage contentious zones like Ban Nong Chan through diplomatic channels.

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The statement reflects Thailand’s cautious approach to normalizing relations amid ongoing sovereignty disputes and regional security concerns. The success of the agreed measures, particularly in mine clearance and scam suppression, will determine the timeline for any border reopening.

-Thailand News (TN)