Cambodia 'bends on landmines'

>>Cambodia has adopted a more conciliatory stance in cooperating with Thailand on landmine clearance efforts along the border, following diplomatic pressure and condemnation from the Thai government, says Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Russ Jalichandra.

- PORAMET TANGSATHAPORN ANUCHA CHAROENPO

Mr Russ addressed the media to clarify the government's actions and inform the international community about the dispute.

He highlighted protests lodged by the government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the military over Cambodia's use of antipersonnel landmines, which violate Thai sovereignty and contravene the Ottawa Treaty, ceasefire agreements, and international humanitarian law.

The Foreign Ministry has led two field visits with diplomats to collect proof of Cambodia's actions, arguing these violations go beyond military or security issues and represent a broader humanitarian threat that requires cooperative resolution, he said.

"Recent reports indicate Cambodia has adopted a more conciliatory stance, agreeing to cooperate on joint surveys and prioritising urgent clearance of antipersonnel mines along the border — although it continues to deny laying new mines," Mr Russ said.

Regarding proposals for an Interim Observer Team (IOT) and an Asean Observer Team (AOT), Mr Russ said Thailand welcomes both initiatives.