Peaceful border talks require secure ground first
As Thailand prepares to engage constructively with the UNCLOS conciliation proceedings to resolve the border dispute with Cambodia, both sides must first ensure that the conditions on the ground are actually safe for our teams to work.
Thailand and Cambodia are embarking on constructive UNCLOS conciliation proceedings to settle their border dispute, but first, both nations must guarantee that the conditions on the ground are safe for their teams to operate. While Thailand prefers direct diplomacy, they are committed to engaging with UNCLOS in good faith, with the Thai people and sovereign rights at heart. However, a border must be more than just a line drawn on paper; it requires surveying by teams that necessitate a secure environment.
Before the Joint Boundary Commission can commence, the border must be sufficiently safe, stable, and well-managed. This entails adhering to commitments on ceasefire, de-escalation, joint demining, and combating transnational crime – not mere confidence-building measures pursued when convenient. These are prerequisites for credible border discussions.
Dismantling landmines is a critical concern, given that Thai soldiers have been injured by newly laid mines. In fact, a Thai deminer recently lost a limb. These safety measures are not optional; they are essential for credible border negotiations to occur.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Peaceful border talks require secure ground first thejakartapost.com
