Thailand Opens Border Areas to ASEAN Observers and International Media

Air Vice Marshal Praphas Saonjai, director of the Thai-Cambodian Information Coordination Centre, led a delegation of ASEAN observers from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia, along with Thai and foreign media, to the Thai-Cambodian border for a fact-finding mission.

The primary objective was to allow foreign media to see the actual situation firsthand, receive information from relevant agencies, and verify facts independently. Thailand maintains that transparency and verifiable information are essential to credibility. The key areas inspected included O-Smach and Chong Chom, along with structures and evidence related to the recent border situation, enabling both Thai and international journalists to gather data and assess the circumstances independently.

When asked what message Thailand wished to convey to the international community, the JIC director stated that Thailand wants information about the border situation grounded in verifiable facts, opening access to both Thai and foreign media to the greatest extent security conditions permit. He emphasized: "We are not asking anyone to take sides, but to consider the facts comprehensively."

Regarding Thailand's stance on the border situation, the JIC director reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to the Joint Statement of December 27, 2025, prioritizing public safety, reducing tensions, and resolving issues through mechanisms agreed by both parties. Thailand's goal is a secure and stable border leading to lasting peace. He reiterated: "We are not asking anyone to take sides, but to consider the facts comprehensively."

The JIC director emphasized the key principle: "Transparency, verification and dialogue are essential to building trust," or "Verifiable facts are the foundation of trust and lasting peace."