Thailand says it beefed up troops on border after Cambodia increased numbers

Thailand has reinforced its military presence along a disputed border with Cambodia following an increase in troops on the other side, Thailand's defence minister said on June 7, as tensions simmered after a deadly clash.

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For days, the two Southeast Asian governments have exchanged carefully worded statements committing to dialogue after a brief skirmish in an undemarcated border area on May 28 in which a Cambodian soldier was killed.

Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who also serves as Thailand's deputy prime minister, said that during bilateral talks held on June 5, Cambodia had rejected proposals that could have led to a de-escalation.

"Furthermore, there has been a reinforcement of military presence, which has exacerbated tensions along the border," Mr Phumtham said in a statement. "Consequently, the Royal Thai Government has deemed it necessary to implement additional measures and to reinforce our military posture accordingly." He did not provide details on the extent of reinforcements.