Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, speaks with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, centre, and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim following the family photo at the APEC summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP)

 

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul insists that any decision to reopen the Thai-Cambodian border will only take place after consulting the public. Following Cambodia's withdrawal of heavy weapons, Anutin labelled this development a "positive step" but emphasised that national security and public opinion were priorities.

 

Returning from the APEC Summit in South Korea, Anutin commended security agencies for their role in maintaining peace in Sa Kaeo province and preventing confrontations. He thanked local residents for their cooperation and highlighted the importance of security and diplomatic measures for stabilising the region.

 

Anutin also clarified previous remarks, taking responsibility for miscommunication about territorial integrity.

 

Cambodia’s recent actions reflect goodwill, as both nations engage in dialogue about disarmament and landmine clearance. The bilateral agreement seeks to ensure border safety, monitored by the Joint Boundary Commission and other committees. Anutin reiterated that established mechanisms will address issues like the Ta Kwai Temple dispute.

 

In response to criticism regarding military reliance on donated equipment, Anutin stressed the Defence Ministry’s ample budget. He dismissed unfounded rumours of border reopening talks, stating no steps would be taken without public approval and reduced security risks, reported The Nation.

 

The ongoing process of prisoner releases includes 18 Cambodian soldiers, following a disarmament framework. Cambodia must withdraw high-impact weapons within 21 days, overseen by the ASEAN Observer Team for impartiality. Future developments hinge on Cambodia’s adherence to agreements.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Anutin asserts border reopening needs public consultation first.
• Cambodia’s weapon withdrawal marks a positive bilateral turn.
• Prisoner release and disarmament are part of wider peace efforts.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-11-03

 

 

Get the borders open and back to normal as both countries rely on each other, sort out the nonsense politics without involving the ordinary people trying to survive. 

Consult the public? How would they realistically do that?

Everyone know it's the Army that will decide anyway.

On 11/3/2025 at 12:37 AM, webfact said:

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul insists that any decision to reopen the Thai-Cambodian border will only take place after consulting the public.

 

Yes, blame som one else and you're safe.