Thai-Cambodia RBC Meeting Collapses After Cambodian Proposals Deviate from Agreed Framework

On February 4, 2024, Rear Admiral Parach Ratanachaiyapant, Navy Spokesperson, reported on the breakdown of the first Special Regional Border Committee (RBC) meeting between Thailand's Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command and Cambodia's Military Region 3. The meeting, held at the Ban Hat Lek Permanent Border Crossing in Trat Province, concluded without reaching a consensus and was terminated in the afternoon. The meeting was intended to be conducted under the framework of the joint statement from the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on December 27, 2023, with the objective of maintaining communication channels, reducing tensions, and preserving a sustainable ceasefire for border area safety. However, during discussions, the Cambodian side proposed approaches and issues reflecting border-related intentions, which the Thai side firmly stated were outside the RBC meeting's objectives and inconsistent with the previous GBC joint statement. The Thai side emphasized its commitment to peaceful problem-solving, respecting existing agreements, and prioritizing the interests of both populations. While unable to find a mutual resolution, Thailand remains open to future discussions under strict adherence to the joint statement, aiming to maintain peace and security along the border.