Latest news with #BoonsinPadklang
The Star
03-06-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Thailand asks military to be patient at Thai-Cambodian border
BANGKOK: Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Region, on Monday (June 2) acknowledged that the government had requested the military to remain patient regarding the Thai-Cambodian border situation, following a buildup of Cambodian forces and heavy weaponry in the Chong Bok area, Ubon Ratchathani Province. This area is claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia, with Thai military officials reporting incursions into Thai territory. Boonsin stated that the Thai government has asked the military to exercise restraint despite growing concerns over these developments. He confirmed that, while the military supports the government's decision to avoid escalating tensions, the possibility of closing the border will be proposed if the situation becomes too untrustworthy. 'We received instructions from the government to exercise patience,' he said. 'It is our policy to maintain composure and follow due process. We cannot act impulsively or make decisions on our own. We will endure as long as possible, following the proper steps. Currently, we are following the government's directives, and we are in the process of holding a Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) meeting to resolve the issue.' Regarding the potential closure of the Thai-Cambodian border as a measure to put pressure on Cambodia, Boonsin clarified that while the military has not yet made a final decision, it remains one option on the table. The military is concerned that the closure could harm local communities along the border, which is why they are waiting for further developments. If the situation becomes untrustworthy, the military will propose closing the border to the government. 'I acknowledge that the government has indeed requested us to remain patient,' Boonsin said. 'As for the border closure, it is only one of the measures we are considering. If the situation becomes untenable, we will propose this to the government.' Boonsin also mentioned that, in the past few days, Thai citizens have continued to closely follow the situation at the Thai-Cambodian border. Many have shown their support by sending supplies and messages of encouragement to the Thai military. 'We thank all Thai people, from every background, ethnicity, and religion, who care about our sovereignty and the border issue,' he said. 'It is our duty, as the military, to protect our borders and uphold sovereignty, following the official maps and guidelines with the utmost rigour. We will not let any land be lost. Please trust in our soldiers; we will do our best to fulfill our duties." - The Nation/ANN
The Star
18-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Thai, Cambodian troops hold talks over border patrol dispute
BANGKOK: The Suranaree Task Force engaged Cambodian troops over border patrol amid recent territorial concerns, Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Region, said on Saturday (May 17). He clarified the situation following reports of Cambodian troops encroaching on Thai territory in Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani. Images had surfaced depicting Cambodian soldiers establishing fortifications, digging trenches, and reinforcing their position with nearly a hundred armed personnel, seemingly preparing for a potential confrontation with Thai forces. Boonsin stated that the Suranaree Task Force had been monitoring the situation for some time and had reported their findings. He further explained that discussions had taken place between Thai and Cambodian military officials, leading to an agreement to halt the trench-digging efforts and withdraw troops from the disputed area. 'The two sides have arranged meetings at scheduled intervals, conducted without weaponry, to discuss joint patrol operations,' he confirmed. - The Nation/ANN
