Discussions on the upcoming GBC meetings shift focus for Thais
Both Malaysia and ASEAN have reaffirmed a commitment to abstaining from intervening in bilateral matters between Thailand and Cambodia [1]. This commitment comes as Thailand and Cambodia continue to grapple with issues surrounding landmine clearance operations and joint action against online scam networks.
Recent developments have seen Thailand proposing landmine clearance and transnational crime combat measures at the upcoming General Border Committee (GBC) meeting [2]. Malaysia has given its assurances in support of this approach. The Thai Deputy Defence Minister, Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit, revealed he met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his visit.
However, Cambodia has yet to fully accept these proposals. Gen Nattaphon confirmed that Cambodia had not accepted the proposals during an Aug 7 press briefing [3]. This reluctance can be attributed to several factors. Cambodia maintains a firm stance on resolving border issues legally and technically, not militarily or hastily [1]. Ongoing mutual distrust from recent border clashes and troop movements also plays a significant role [4][5].
Cambodia prefers diplomatic and multilateral frameworks rather than direct bilateral operational cooperation on contentious matters like landmines and crime [1][3][4][5]. This cautious approach is a result of the complex political dynamics and the previous violent escalations [5].
The GBC meeting is expected to occur within the next month. Cambodia's participation in bilateral discussions at the recent meeting is a key milestone, according to Gen Nattaphon [6]. The two key issues of mine clearance cooperation and tackling transnational crime will continue to be raised at every opportunity.
Despite some progress, not all counterproposals have been agreed upon by Thailand. Gen Nattaphon stated that no official reasons were given for Cambodia's reluctance to accept Thailand's proposals on mine clearance cooperation and transnational crime combat [7].
As the border remains a very sensitive flashpoint, both countries must navigate these issues delicately to avoid further escalation. The commitment to upholding the rule of law and diplomatic dialogue is crucial in resolving these long-standing disputes.
References:
- ASEAN's commitment to non-interference
- Thailand's proposals for GBC meeting
- Gen Nattaphon's Aug 7 press briefing
- Border clashes and troop reinforcements
- Violent clashes in July 2025
- Cambodia's participation in GBC meeting
- Gen Nattaphon on Cambodia's reluctance
- The ongoing war-and-conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia, particularly regarding landmine clearance operations and joint action against online scam networks, have led to a shift in policy-and-legislation, with Thailand proposing measures at the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting.
- Malaysia, while supporting Thailand's approach, prefers a diplomatic and multilateral framework over direct bilateral operational cooperation in war-and-conflicts and politics, as the sensitivity of the general-news involving the border disputes between the two nations necessitates careful navigation to avoid further escalation.
