The commanders of the three Thai armed forces have agreed unanimously that all border checkpoints with Cambodia will remain closed until the border situation has eased or Cambodia stops posing a threat to Thailand.
The commanders of the army, navy and air force met today at the Supreme Command headquarters, for a discussion chaired by Supreme Commander Gen Songwit Noonpackdee.
The commanders also agreed that Cambodia still poses a security threat to Thailand and it is, therefore, necessary for Thailand to build border barricades in undisputed border areas.
For areas which are still disputed by both sides, troops will patrol them and a strategic road will be built along the border.
Those at the meeting agreed that Thai troops will follow the international rules of engagement in responding to hostile acts by the Cambodians.
General Songwit confirmed that the Thai army commander-in-chief is authorised, under martial law, to close or reopen any border checkpoint under the jurisdiction of the Royal Thai Army.
Meanwhile, Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Jirapol Wongwit said today that some Cambodian casinos partially encroach on Thai territory and Thailand has lodged protests with the Cambodian governor on several occasions, but without success.
He said he would prefer talks between the two countries to deal with these casinos, whether they should be dismantled, partially dismantled or be used by both sides.
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nikorndej Balankura accused Cambodia today of provoking the incidents at Ban Nong Ya Kaew in Sa Kaeo province on September 16th and 17th, adding that provocation using civilians as human shields constitutes a violation of international law.
Thailand is disappointed with Cambodia for resorting to conflict, instead of peaceful means, to resolve the issues, said Nikorndej.
