Phumtham denies Thai request to Cambodia over border checkpoint

Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Monday rejected claims made by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, insisting that Thailand had never requested Cambodia to reopen any border checkpoints.

His comments followed a Facebook post by Hun Manet, which claimed that Thai authorities had requested Cambodia to open checkpoints and called on Thailand to take the first step.

In response, Phumtham clarified that the checkpoints had not been closed, but were simply operating under scheduled hours. "Cross-border trade has continued in some areas," he said, adding that Thailand has made its position clear and has always prioritised peaceful means.On foreign policy, Phumtham said Thailand had consistently maintained a stance of encouraging dialogue between both sides. We’ve tried to ensure that ordinary people on both sides are not affected, and we must separate humanitarian issues from government-level matters, he added.

He also noted that Thailand had continued to allow Cambodian students to attend school and had granted entry to patients needing urgent medical treatment.

“I believe we have been clear from the outset,” Phumtham said. “Cambodia should exercise caution and good judgement in its remarks. The main issue Cambodia is facing right now lies within its own borders, while Thailand’s position has always been transparent.”

He reiterated that Thailand would not engage with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issue. “We have no interest in it as we have never accepted its jurisdiction,” he said. “As for other matters, they are being handled through proper channels, and the army has already clarified the situation regarding border checkpoints.”

When asked whether Thailand opening its checkpoints to facilitate the transport of goods, despite Cambodia refusing to reciprocate, would have any repercussions, Phumtham said it would not.

“Our aim is to reduce the impact on the public and on businesses. If Thailand chooses to show flexibility to avoid a crisis and ensure benefits for its people, and Cambodia refuses to do the same, that’s their decision. The Cambodian people will have to consider that for themselves,” he said.

(2025/06/30-00:00)