Thailand Declines International Mediation in Border Dispute with Cambodia
Thailand has decisively turned down mediation offers from third-party countries in its current border dispute with Cambodia, asserting that the matter should be settled through direct negotiations between the two nations. This statement follows several days marked by increased tensions and military confrontations along the contested border area.
On Friday, Foreign ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura announced that the United States, China, and Malaysia, which is the current chair of the ASEAN bloc, had extended offers to mediate peace talks. However, Thailand has opted to decline these proposals.
"I don't think we need any mediation from a third country yet," Nikorndej stated to Reuters, emphasizing Thailand's dedication to resolving the situation through bilateral discussions with Cambodia.
The Thai administration has urged Phnom Penh to cease its cross-border aggressions, which reportedly include drone strikes and artillery fire. The stance from Bangkok is that only direct dialogue can achieve a lasting reduction in hostilities.
While the ASEAN bloc has historically been involved in mediating regional conflicts, Thailand’s refusal to accept external intervention could impede broader diplomatic initiatives. Nevertheless, officials in Bangkok have underscored their willingness to engage in dialogue — but exclusively on a bilateral basis between the governments.
