Moment of truth for Prasart

Ex-envoy tasked with diffusing Cambodia crisis, write Jutamas Tadthiemrom and Poramet Tangsathaporn

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As the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) convenes in Phnom Penh today amid rising tensions, Prasart Prasasvinitchai, leader of the Thai delegation, faces a defining moment after his appointment was welcomed by those who view him as a seasoned negotiator, but drew caution from others who see him as too divisive a figure to calm such a sensitive diplomatic issue.

A long-serving official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Prasart has made a career out of interpreting international law and advising in boundary negotiations. Trained in law, he is known for his precision and deep institutional knowledge, having risen through the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs, where he once headed the boundary division before serving as director-general. His background has made him a go-to figure in many of Thailand’s most delicate border talks.