"Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief” emphasizes no reopening of Thai-Cambodian Border Crossing close means of close, not a temporary reopening

Today (16 April 2026) Admiral Pairoj Fuengchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, addressed the statement by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Minister of Interior that the border crossing in Trat province would not be reopened, following reports of Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen sending a close associate to negotiate with the Thai side. Admiral Fuengchan stated that the Royal Thai Navy firmly adheres to the government's policy and will not reopen the border crossing. He affirmed his firm order, stating that the Navy will never, and will never, compromise with any opposing side, regardless of the potential benefits. He stressed that such a situation would never be tolerated by the Royal Thai Navy.

When asked about the rumors that attempts were made to negotiate and that the matter had been reported to superiors, Admiral Pairoj said that it was likely just rumors, but he confirmed that he had never received any such report.

When asked again if this included not opening the temporary checkpoints, Admiral Pairoj stated that they were clearly following government policy: closed means closed.