2nd Army Chief Brushes Off Border Clash Comments, Focuses On Duty

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FILE PHOTO- An overview of Cambodia's 11th century Hindu Preah Vihear temple, UNESCO's World Heritage, is seen in Preah Vihear province, about 245 kilometres (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith, File)

 

Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, the Commander of Thailand's 2nd Army Region, diffused potential tensions after clarifying a conversation with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

 

On a phone call, the PM explained her private discussion with Hun Sen, the Cambodian Senate Chief, which referenced the Thai-Cambodian border. Gen Boonsin reassured Paetongtarn, expressing he had "no issues" with her dialogue.

 

Paetongtarn had reached out to Boonsin following the discussion, which sparked interest due to a leaked audio file of the call with Hun Sen on June 15, 2025.

 

In the recording, the Prime Minister allegedly advised Hun Sen not to heed others, suggesting some comments might be "not beneficial to the country". The conversation was clarified as a strategic negotiation.

 

Boonsin emphasised he remains focused on his duties, reiterating his commitment to national service. He thanked Paetongtarn for her candid explanation and expressed his unwavering passion for working towards the nation's prosperity.

 

The general also highlighted that he was en route to tend to wounded soldiers from border service, steadfastly carrying out his responsibilities amid the distraction.

 

The encounter illuminates the sometimes-tense atmosphere on the Thai-Cambodian border, historically fraught with disputes. Despite the kerfuffle, Boonsin's level-headed response exhibits dedication to upholding stability and relations.

 

Meanwhile, Paetongtarn framed the call with Hun Sen as a strategy of negotiation to safeguard mutual interests.

 

In conclusion, Lt Gen Boonsin continues his work without disruption, and relations with Cambodia remain stable. As both countries manage complex border politics, maintaining clarity in diplomatic communications is as crucial as ever.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-06-19

 

 

[JAG]

A Lieutenant General working as a medic! Talk about multi tasking!