Threatenings from Hun Sen won't deter Paetongtarn, she declares her resolve

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PM Paetongtarn Slaps Down Threats and Misinfo After Hun Sen's 24-hr Ultimatum

Paetongtarn, Thailand's PM, had some harsh words for anyone peddling threats or misinfo after Hun Sen, Cambodia's Senate President, issued a 24-hr ultimatum demanding a full reopening of Thai border checkpoints.

After a two-hour powwow discussing the results of the recent Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) session, Paetongtarn declared the meeting a success. Both sides agreed on the broad strokes of the discussion, she said, aligning with the Foreign Ministry's earlier statement.

Paetongtarn emphasized that talks have taken place at all levels—from operational units to the PM herself. A new Thai working team, led by Deputy Defence Minister Gen Nattapol Nakpanit, has been tasked with determining a framework for intelligence gathering, defense prep, and future responses.

Concerning Hun Sen's demand for a full reopening of all border checkpoints within 24 hours, Paetongtarn clarified that the border was never officially closed. Instead, operating hours have been adjusted due to recent skirmishes within Thai territory and chats about troop repositioning.

Security Council (NSC) gave the military the green light to assess the situation and adapt accordingly. However, since the Cambodian side refuses to reposition its forces, Thailand has had to enforce revised checkpoint operating times.

Paetongtarn shared that her first convo with Cambodian PM Hun Manet happened on May 28. Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and preserving lives on both sides of the border.

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Strongly advocating for bilateral dialogue as the best way to hash out troubles and reach mutual understanding, Paetongtarn expressed concern over selective sharing of discussions on social media. This sharing outside official frameworks has caused public confusion and diplomatic complications.

Paetongtarn issued a warning to Cambodia to consider the impact of their online posts on bilateral ties and local livelihoods, particularly border closures' effects on Thai and Cambodian citizens.

Meanwhile, trade disruption, especially regarding fruit exports, is a significant concern if all checkpoints were to be closed. Paetongtarn noted that the Cambodian side has been informed of a meeting taking place today to reevaluate the situation and determine further actions.

On May 28, Paetongtarn also proposed that both sides convene the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) and the Regional Border Committee (RBC) at the military level to tackle the issue. She stated that the JBC meeting acknowledged both sides were on the same page, seeking peace, and the Thai Foreign Ministry had already clarified the contents of the discussions.

Paetongtarn addressed the perceived use of information warfare by Cambodia, stating that it doesn't benefit either nation. She stressed that communication should be coordinated, as both the people on the frontlines and those consuming the news are not the same. Decisions must be made with empathy, she said, as it's easy to take a tough stance from a distance, but it's crucial to understand the reality on the ground.

New checkpoint operating hours were enforced due to an increase in the use of heavier and longer-range weaponry in the area. If weapons are brought in without time restrictions and an incident happens, the damage could be substantial, she warned.

To clarify Thailand's stance to the international community, Paetongtarn expressed the need to formalize discussions by convening the GBC or RBC to record everything in writing. She also noted that the Foreign Ministry had arranged a meeting with foreign ambassadors in Thailand later that day to discuss Thailand's position and the facts on the ground.

Reiterating her stance, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa spoke with his Cambodian counterpart on June 4 to reinforce Thailand's position.

"We may have communicated less publicly, but that's because we value mutual dignity and respect bilateral mechanisms," said Paetongtarn. "What needs to be addressed officially should remain within [these] frameworks."

Paetongtarn called for clear explanations to counter Cambodia's information warfare and assured both the government and military agreed on the importance of protecting Thailand's sovereignty.

She emphasized the importance of unity among the Thai people as they stand to protect their nation's dignity and strength.

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Paetongtarn
Paetongtarn Shinawatra
Threats
Hun Sen
Cambodia
border
territorial disputes
checkpoints

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Amid the rising tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, the political landscape is affected with PM Paetongtarn addressing concerns over selective sharing of discussions on social media, causing public confusion and diplomatic complications.
In a broader perspective, the international scene is also impacted as Paetongtarn calls for clear explanations to counter Cambodia's information warfare and assures that both the government and military agree on the importance of protecting Thailand's sovereignty.
The economic aspect is not left untouched as trade disruption, particularly regarding fruit exports, is a significant concern if all checkpoints were to be closed, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and cooperation between both nations.
Meanwhile, other general news beyond the political arena includes ongoing war-and-conflicts, as the Thailand's Pharmaceutical Industry faces challenges with import reliance and rising costs, potentially affecting the overall health of the nation.
In contrast to the tense situation at the Thai-Cambodian border, there is some positive news, as Thailand is approved to host Formula One from 2028-2033 with a projected THB 41bn budget, showcasing the country's growing strength and influence in the world of business and international relations.