Thai and Cambodian Leaders Visit Disputed Border as Tensions Simmer
Leaders from Thailand and Cambodia visited their disputed border regions on June 26 amidst rising tensions caused by recent armed clashes and accusations related to illegal online scams. Prime Minister Paetongtarn is facing political pressure, including a no-confidence vote, while former Cambodian premier Hun Sen visits military units. This political turbulence threatens the stability of both nations as protests are being organized.
Thai and Cambodian leaders are on the move in an effort to quell rising tensions along their disputed border. On Thursday, June 26, both nations’ leaders visited different segments of the 817-kilometer land border, following a territorial dispute that has escalated after brief armed clashes last month led to the death of a Cambodian soldier. These tensions have resulted in a slew of back-and-forth measures, including troop mobilizations and the suspension of Cambodia’s fuel imports from Thailand, alongside Thailand’s partial shut down of border checkpoints.
As Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrived in the Thai border town of Aranyaprathet, opposite Cambodia’s Poipet, she was met with a warm reception from supporters. Some held a large sign proclaiming “Love You Prime Minister Paetongtarn.” The prime minister explained that her visit’s main goal was to examine the effects of policies aimed at combatting transnational crime and to evaluate the impact of the current border restrictions, which have halted all vehicles and traders from entering Cambodia.
Earlier in the week, Paetongtarn made headlines by linking the rise of illegal online scams to Cambodia, an assertion that Cambodian officials have firmly denied. Meanwhile, former Cambodian premier Hun Sen was busy on his end, visiting troops and local officials in Oddar Meanchey province, which is in close proximity to Thailand’s Surin province. Video footage captured Hun Sen’s arrival by helicopter wearing military attire, as he spent time engaging with military forces in the area.
Historically, the two leaders have shared a warm relationship, partly due to Hun Sen’s connection with Paetongtarn’s father, ex-Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra. However, political tensions have heightened following a leaked phone call in which Paetongtarn reportedly criticized a Thai military commander, an action that is particularly sensitive in Thailand. The incident has created significant political pressure, leading the Bhumjaithai party to exit the coalition government in response.
In light of these events, Bhumjaithai has announced plans to push for a parliamentary no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Paetongtarn, following the controversy surrounding the leaked call. Furthermore, she now finds herself under judicial scrutiny, as a group of senators has called for investigations into her conduct, which could threaten her position. Compounding these issues, anti-government groups are planning protests this weekend, calling for her resignation.
This situation highlights not just the ongoing border tensions, but also the precarious political landscape in Thailand, where internal disputes threaten to destabilize the current administration.
The recent visits by Thai and Cambodian leaders underscore the fragile state of relations between the two nations, intensified by border disputes and internal political crises in Thailand. Prime Minister Paetongtarn, amid allegations and criticisms, faces significant challenges to her leadership, while Hun Sen reinforces his military presence along the border. As protests loom and further political instability seems likely, the coming days may prove crucial for both governments’ futures. The geopolitical tensions coupled with domestic pressures make this a situation to watch closely.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
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