Official explanation of border barrier's intent
In the ongoing discussions within the Ad Hoc Centre for Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation (AHC), a proposal for a security fence at Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province has been raised. The fence, intended to span a distance of 16 kilometers, is intended to link Ban Nong Chan with Ban Nong Ya Kaew.
The proposed fence, put forward by Sa Kaeo governor Parinya Phothisat at a recent AHC meeting, is not intended as a demarcation of the Thai-Cambodian border. Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit, the Caretaker Deputy Defence Minister, has emphasized that the fence is intended solely as a protective measure to curb cross-border crime and ensure public safety.
However, the proposal has sparked tensions along the border, with a protest by Cambodian villagers in Khok Sung district, Sa Kaeo. The protest occurred after Thai soldiers posted warning signs ordering Cambodian nationals who had crossed into Thai territory to return to their side of the border.
Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit has stressed that the security fence is not a marker of sovereignty. He has urged that discussions should focus on areas of mutual benefit. The current government transition in Thailand adds a politically sensitive context to the proposal.
The AHC has approved the plan for the security fence at Ban Nong Chan in principle, but its details need further consideration by the National Security Council (NSC). Gen Nattaphon Phothisat, the chairman of the AHC, emphasized that the upcoming General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on Sept 10 must take place.
The heightened tensions along the border have also raised concerns about the potential misinterpretation of the proposed fence along canal embankments by Cambodia as a shift in the official border. The name of the chairman of the NSC who will decide on the details of the proposed security fence construction at Ban Nong Chan is not available at this time.
The Council of State and Foreign Ministry have advised against raising issues that could impact the next administration. Gen Nattaphon Phothisat has urged for a peaceful resolution to the border disputes and emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations between Thailand and Cambodia.
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