"Thailand's new Foreign Minister" holds first meeting with international envoys, Vows to restore Thai-cambodia relation through bilateral dialogue

Photo: Teeravoot Sion via SAP NEWS

On October 1, 2015, Thailand’s new Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkaew addressed the diplomatic corps on briefing on the outcomes of the Minister of Foreign Affairs’ Participation at the UNGA High-level Week and the current Thailand-Cambodia border situation. His opening remarks that today was his first official day as Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.   The briefing would focus on the Thai-Cambodian border situation and the government's recent policy statement to Parliament.   With only four months in office, he was compelled to think about and prepare how to make the most of that time.

Photo: Teeravoot Sion via SAP NEWS

He also emphasized Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul Prime Minister and Minister of Interior policies, which emphasize expanding cooperation frameworks and foreign policy, including economics, trade, investment, and free trade agreements, with the goal of fostering international cooperation for maximum benefit. Thailand will host an ASEAN-wide gathering later this year under the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) framework.

Photo: Teeravoot Sion via SAP NEWS

After that, Mr. Sihasak noted that he believes Thai diplomacy should take an integrated approach that includes politics, security and economics.   His invitation to the ambassadors today was to discuss Thailand's future under his direction as Foreign Minister.   The 80th United Nation General Assembly presented a critical chance to show Thailand's worldwide standing.   The statement discussed the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Gaza issue and Thailand's stance on climate change, human trafficking, human rights and the rights of children and women. He also met with the Japanese Foreign Minister, who is the President of the Ottawa Convention, to discuss the Thai-Cambodian border dispute, where Thai soldiers have walked on Cambodian explosives.   A general meeting has been scheduled for December and the best and most constructive approach is to expedite collaborative demining discussions at the General Border Committee (GBC).

He also talked with the Russian Foreign Minister, who is the President of the UN Security Council, on the country's good relations with Thailand, as well as the bilateral resolution of the matter and progress.   We do not believe that bringing the current Thai-Cambodian conflict to world attention will resolve the issue.   I had the opportunity to speak with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and summarized the situation by stating Thailand's goal for peace and progress with all of its neighboring countries, which will benefit Thailand.

Furthermore, the refugee situation in Myanmar, which allows them to work in Thailand, demonstrates Thailand's progress toward refugee care and human rights protection.   Thailand's declaration before the UN General Assembly demonstrates Thailand doesn’t aim to be an enemy of anyone, nor should it be.   We are prepared to negotiate amicably, but a true dialogue area is required.   This area is not yet open, as we want to protect our sovereign territory. The conversation with Mr. Prak Sokhon, Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sihasak pointed out that diplomats must engage in discussion.   When disagreement emerges, we must understand one another.   Any understanding that can be established would be beneficial.   I am thankful to the United States for organizing the four-party meeting.   However, due to limitations on time, Mr. Sihasak demanded that the meeting reflect Thailand's efforts at restoring relationships. However, Cambodia made untrue allegations against Thailand during the meeting.   As a result, I had to change my remark to reflect Thailand's goals. Thailand has continually offered support to Cambodia, including help to over 400,000 refugees along the border and rehabilitation efforts, which led to the OECD meeting in Paris.

“We’ve got good intentions Thailand's current situation doesn't exceed its expectations We must work together, start making progress, we'll see a clearer path back to normality,"

Mr. Sihasak said.

Photo: Teeravoot Sion via SAP NEWS

When asked about the Thailand-Cambodia MOU, Mr. Sihasak responded that it was a matter of the public participating in a referendum, for which Deputy Prime Minister Bowornsak Uwanno had already detailed the preliminary steps.   The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform the public about the substance and purpose of the MOU, allowing them to make decisions based on facts.   We respect any choice that affects the country's interests, thus we encourage public input.   Moreover, with only 4 months and significant imminent obstacles, the government must avoid becoming overwhelmed.   We must plan for the long term and provide a solid foundation for Thailand's international affairs.

To reaffirm Thai-Cambodian ties, we certainly need sincerity to find a solution.   As such, we must actively regulate information to avoid fake news.   Following the recent parliamentary explanation of Cambodia's policy, information and communication are critical to our success.   Mr. Sihasak finished by stating that Cambodia must first demonstrate urgency and progress in resolving border concerns, as the situation has yet to return to normal. We must ensure that the border situation stays safe and peaceful, allowing people to get back to everyday life.

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Source of material: official media /online news