The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has dismissed claims by Cambodia that the recent Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting discussed the contentious 1:200,000-scale map of the disputed Nong Chan-Nong Ya Kaeo areas in Sa Kaeo province.
MFA spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura clarified yesterday that the map mentioned in Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet’s social media post was not part of the JBC’s official agenda.
He said the special JBC session, held on Oct 21-22 in Chanthaburi province, was focused solely on joint efforts to survey and verify the locations of original boundary markers.
“The meeting concentrated exclusively on existing demarcation markers. The 1:200,000 map was not discussed,” Mr Nikorndej said.
He said the discussions were conducted by experienced technical officers and that all deliberations were transparent and documented.
“Participants thoroughly reviewed all matters and even issued a statement at 1am after the meeting. When a leader comments without attending the meeting, the weight of that statement is naturally less than that of those who actually took part and signed the documents,” he noted.
Mr Nikorndej reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, national interests, and the safety of people living in border areas.
On border security, he said any construction of fencing would be carried out only along clearly demarcated sections and entirely within Thai territory.
“The fence aims to enhance security, maintain peace, and prevent cross-border encroachment,” he added.
He also highlighted that bilateral mechanisms between Thailand and Cambodia remain active and productive.