The government has approved a central budget of 864 million baht for the Royal Thai Army to enhance border security amid rising tensions along the Thai-Cambodian frontier, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul revealed on Wednesday.
The funds were approved during the cabinet meeting held immediately after his policy address to parliament on Tuesday, a move which underscores the urgency in addressing border issues and ensuring national sovereignty, Mr Anutin said. The premier said the approval had not been delayed and emphasised that the budget is designed to enhance the army’s readiness to respond to emerging security situations at the Thai-Cambodian border.
He declined to confirm whether the funds would be used for constructing border fencing, citing security concerns. However, he said the financial support would enable the armed forces to better protect the country’s sovereignty during this sensitive period. The matter will also be discussed at today’s meeting of the National Security Council (NSC), where several related issues, including the appointment of a new chair of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), are on the agenda. The current chairman’s term ends on the same day.
Responding to Cambodia’s recent petition to the International Court of Justice to rule on the ownership of the disputed Ta Kwai and Ta Muen Thom temples, Mr Anutin said Thailand has a clear stance on this matter and would firmly uphold its national interests. “Cambodia has the right to file the case, but Thailand will continue to follow its established protocols,” he said.
New Second Army Region Commander Lt Gen Weerayut Raksin, who oversees the northeastern border area, said yesterday that Thai troops remain fully prepared and vigilant. “While Cambodia has at times employed military provocations, Thai forces are exercising restraint and avoiding escalation,” he said. Lt Gen Weerayut assumed the role of commander following Lt Gen Boonsin’s mandatory retirement.