Release of POWs tied to Cambodian compliance

Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit yesterday dismissed reports that Thailand would release 18 Cambodian prisoners of war today, stating that any release depends on Cambodia meeting two out of four conditions in a bilateral peace framework.

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA

He said the release would not follow a fixed date, but hinge on compliance with the framework agreed at a Sept 10 meeting.

The framework requires Cambodia to withdraw heavy weapons, clear landmines, tackle online scam operations and improve border management.

The Thai government has established a special committee comprising representatives from the military, the Foreign Ministry, the Interior Ministry, and the National Security Council to monitor Cambodia's implementation of the framework.

The committee agreed that weapon withdrawal and landmine clearance are the most tangible indicators of progress. If Phase 1 is completed, the release of POWs will be considered, Gen Nattaphon said.