Anutin Says No One-on-One Talks with Hun Manet at ASEAN Summit
Thai PM Anutin said he won't hold one-on-one talks with Cambodia's Hun Manet at the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, though they may meet in multilateral settings, amid ongoing disputes over maritime issues between the two nations.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday sought to reassure the public ahead of his meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, insisting there would be no bilateral discussions between the two leaders.
Speaking before departing from Wing 6 at Don Mueang military airport for Cebu, Philippines, where the summit is being held from 7-9 May, Anutin said Thailand would use the regional forum to present its position and inform ASEAN members about the situation and policies regarding Thailand's handling of issues with Cambodia.
"We are not going there for sightseeing or simply to meet leaders out of courtesy," Anutin said. "We are going there to work, negotiate and present Thailand's position."
Asked about the possibility of meeting Hun Manet, the Thai premier said the two leaders would inevitably meet during summit activities later in the day, but stressed that there would be no one-on-one bilateral talks.
"It will not be a two-person meeting," he said, noting that the Philippines, as ASEAN chair, would likely arrange opportunities for leaders to meet in a multilateral setting.
Anutin urged the public not to be concerned, saying his government would continue to adhere to principles protecting Thailand's sovereignty and national interests.
"Any discussion or negotiation must be beneficial to Thailand and must uphold Thai sovereignty above all else," he said. "This must be in the interest of the Thai people. There is no need to worry."
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Thailand and Cambodia following disputes over maritime issues and Bangkok's recent decision to cancel the 2001 memorandum of understanding with Cambodia.
