To boost bilateral trade and communications between Thailand and Cambodia, Sa Kaeo authorities have asked for the opening of a permanent checkpoint, linking Sa Kaeo province with Banteay Meanchey of Cambodia.

The request was made during a visit by Deputy Prime Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara who is also foreign minister to Sa Kaeo on Monday.

Parnpree went to observe the progress of the building of the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge, linking Ban Nong Ian in Aranyaprathet district with Cambodia’s Ban Stung Bot in Oddar Meanchey district.

A checkpoint building is also under construction and is expected to be completed this November. Parnpree was asked whether, when the checkpoint opens, it can become a permanent one, to facilitate the travel and trade.

The authorities would also like the Foreign Ministry to open temporary passport office in Aranyaprathet district and a Thai consular office in Cambodia.

Mutual border trade in Sa Kaeo province, between October 2022 and August 2023, was Bt103.6 million, Bt79.6 million of which were Thai exports. Sa Kew governor Parinya Phothisat accompanied Parnpree during the visit.