BANGKOK — Diplomatic negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia entered their second day on June 15 in Phnom Penh, as the Joint Border Commission (JBC) works to resolve escalating tensions that have disrupted trade and strained relations between the Southeast Asian neighbors.
Despite ongoing talks, border situations remain volatile across multiple crossing points. At the Ban Laem permanent border crossing in Chanthaburi province’s Pong Nam Ron district, numerous Thai cargo trucks remain stranded on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Cambodian authorities at Koh Kong customs—opposite Thailand’s Khlong Yai Customs Checkpoint in Trat Province—announced a complete ban on Thai fruit and agricultural products entering Cambodia, effective from noon on June 14.
Contrasting Leadership Approaches
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has maintained a measured stance while awaiting official negotiation results. Government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap expressed optimism, stating that “Thailand believes dialogue will reduce tensions and lead to sustainable solutions in the future.”
In stark contrast, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has escalated measures, announcing on social media that Cambodia would act preemptively to establish self-reliance in response to Thai nationalist calls to cut electricity and internet connectivity to Cambodia.
Cambodia Announces Sweeping Boycotts
According to AP News, Cambodia escalated its cold war with Thailand on Friday by announcing bans on Thai movies and TV shows, as well as boycotts of Thailand’s internet and electricity services. On Saturday, Hun Manet posted on Facebook that Cambodia is prepared to recall Cambodian migrant workers from Thailand, with government assistance for their return.
The Cambodian government has mobilized multiple ministries to support returning workers, including the Ministry of National Defense to provide transport, the Ministry of Labor to help find domestic employment, and financial institutions to assist with debt relief.
Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has urged the international community to persuade Thailand to accept International Court of Justice jurisdiction over four disputed border areas: Ta Moan Thom Temple, Ta Moan Tauch Temple, Ta Krabei Temple, and Mom Bei areas.
Expert Analysis Points to Political Motivations
Former Thai Foreign Minister Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, now President of Chulalongkorn University Council, suggests Cambodia’s aggressive stance may be aimed at boosting nationalist sentiment to support the government during domestic challenges.
“When Cambodia faces internal problems, economic issues, or upcoming elections, they consistently use foreign threats as justification,” Dr. Surakiart explained. He noted that Thailand’s current weak coalition government and recent cabinet reshuffles provide an opportune moment for Cambodia to apply pressure.
Historical Context and Current Complications
The current tensions stem from an armed confrontation on May 28th that resulted in one Cambodian soldier’s death, with each side blaming the other. The dispute represents what experts describe as a hybrid of traditional and modern warfare, involving both territorial border issues and economic leverage.
Domestic Political Pressure
While the Paetongtarn government attempts diplomatic solutions, hoping that historical ties between the Shinawatra and Hun families might help, domestic opposition groups have criticized the Prime Minister’s measured approach. Anti-Thaksin groups, military supporters, and opposition party backers have attacked Paetongtarn for not taking a harder stance, mockingly calling her “Hun Tongtarn” or Hun Sen’s daughter.
Thai regional experts warn that rising nationalist sentiment on both sides is making resolution increasingly difficult, complicating what should be a manageable diplomatic issue between neighboring countries.
The JBC talks continue as both nations seek to balance domestic political pressures with the need for regional stability and economic cooperation.
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