Report Thai PM Paetongtarn Defends Family Ties with Hun Sen Amid Border Tension

[webfact]

Former Cambodian PM Hun Sen visited his long-time friend Thaksin Shinawatra at the Ban Chan Song La residence in Bangkok’s Bang Phlat district in February 2024. Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

In the thick of growing political tensions, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared that her family's close ties to former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen are not a conflict of interest.

 

She urged the Thai public to steer clear of fake news that could intensify border disputes with Cambodia. The former Cambodian leader visited Thailand in February 2024 to see his long-time friend, Thaksin Shinawatra.

 

Addressing speculation, Paetongtarn emphasised that close familial bonds might actually aid in resolving conflicts rather than inflaming them. “I will not give up my house to a neighbour,” she assured, committing that her government would not compromise Thai territory to Cambodia, regardless of familial relationships.

 

The Prime Minister stressed unity among all Thais, highlighting that divisions could further complicate the crucial border issue at hand.

 

Paetongtarn encouraged collaboration between the government, opposition, and public in facing national challenges. Emphasising a peaceful stance, she stated that it is crucial to avoid any needless conflict or loss of life. Meetings with the Thai military aim to approach border difficulties strategically without resorting to hostilities.

 

Furthermore, Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is set to assess the situation at Chong Bok and attend a Joint Boundary Committee meeting on June 14. This move is part of ongoing efforts to address and discuss border problems with Cambodian counterparts.

 

The directive underscores Thailand’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution, integrating familial ties into broader strategies for peace and stability.

 

By neutralising potential tensions through diplomatic channels and familial negotiations, Thailand reinforces its stand for peace and cooperation amid challenging regional dynamics.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-06-05

 

 

[ikke1959]

As written earlier... The Shin clan is behind these tensions, so daddy can be the hero to safe Thailand from a war

[JoePai]

Disgusting - they will start inbreeding soon

[Artisi]

Lovely cozy photo isn't it, at the time Thaksin was just recovering from his near death experience and it was great that he had such good friends for moral support to assist in his miraculous rehabilitation to full function.