BANGKOK, Aug. 11– Thai army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree on Monday clarified regarding the Cambodian Ministry of Defense’s earlier accusations that Boonsin Padklang, commander of Thailand’s Second Army Region, did not mention the deployment of forces regarding disputed temples, and what was stated does not constitute any attempt at provocation, as Cambodia has claimed.
The clarification came after a Cambodian defense spokesperson accused that the planned military action announced by Boonsin is a violation of a ceasefire reached by both countries.
According to Thai media reports, Boonsin said in an interview on Sunday that Thailand is considering blocking access to one of the two disputed temples along the Thai-Cambodian border to prevent Cambodian entry, while also vowing to take back another temple currently under Cambodian control.
Winthai further clarified that what Boonsin stated on Sunday was that the temple currently held by Cambodia is under Thai sovereignty.
During past clashes, Thai forces had attempted to seize it through force deployment but were unsuccessful, leading to Thai troops now being stationed 30 meters outside the temple.
However, Thailand must eventually reclaim it through appropriate procedures. Boonsin also stated that Thailand would prepare to bring various matters for discussion and negotiation within the Regional Border Committee meeting framework to occur within two weeks, emphasizing the position of Thailand that it will not retreat from the existing force deployment line.
Armed clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces erupted on July 24 along their border. The two countries agreed to a ceasefire on the afternoon of July 28, which took effect at midnight on the same day. (Xinhua)
