Regional observers are calling on Thailand’s new prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, to resolve his country’s long-running border dispute with Cambodia under international law and the ceasefire agreements already in place. They warn that continuing the confrontational approach of the previous government would damage both Thailand’s interests and regional stability.
Sek Socheat, a development and research consultant, told The Cambodia Daily that if Anutin repeats the aggressive policies of his predecessors, he should reflect on the fate of former Thai leaders who faced serious setbacks after military clashes with Cambodia. He argued that war brings not only personal and political problems but also heavy losses for Thailand.
Sek Socheat said Anutin has little choice but to abide by international law and ceasefire agreements, which is also the wish of Cambodia and the international partners helping to mediate the conflict.
On September 7, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet sent a congratulatory letter to Anutin after the Thai parliament voted him into office as Thailand’s 32nd prime minister. Hun Manet reminded him that the two countries are close neighbours linked by geography and membership in ASEAN. He said Cambodia looked forward to working closely with the new government to restore normal relations, rebuild mutual trust, and ensure the border becomes a place of peace, cooperation, and development.
Hun Manet expressed hope that joint commitment would allow the peoples of both nations to enjoy prosperity and peaceful coexistence.
Thai newspaper Khaosod reported on September 7 that Anutin pledged to begin addressing the border dispute peacefully to reduce suffering and losses on both sides.
At the same time, the paper reported on September 8 that Thai border patrols in Sa Kaeo province had detained about 300 Cambodian migrants since June for crossing illegally through local villages. Many workers had paid smugglers between 5,000 and 6,000 baht each to return to Thailand, citing the lack of jobs at home. Thai soldiers said the detainees would be sent to the Aranyaprathet immigration station at Klong Nam Sai for imprisonment.
The calls for peaceful resolution come as both governments face pressure to ease tensions while also addressing the economic realities that drive thousands of Cambodians to seek work across the border.
