Red Cross faces landmine worries, as expressed by Maris
Thailand's Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, met with Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), on Thursday at the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (APMBC) held at the United Nations (UN) Office in Geneva, Switzerland.
During the meeting, Minister Maris discussed Cambodia's violations of the ceasefire agreement and the continued use of anti-personnel landmines along the border with Ms Egger. He presented evidence of Cambodia's breaches of the Ottawa Convention, specifically its continued use of anti-personnel landmines.
The minister emphasised that such actions constitute clear violations of international law. He condemned Cambodia's continued violations and submitted formal protests to all relevant international organisations. This comes after a new landmine incident on Thai territory occurred just a day earlier, resulting in a Thai soldier losing a leg.
The SOC-TCBSM reported that while no clashes have occurred in 11 border areas across seven provinces, Thai forces remain on full alert around the clock to safeguard Thailand's national sovereignty. Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang warned that the risk of renewed armed confrontation now stands at "fifty-fifty" following the latest landmine incident.
Minister Maris reaffirmed that Thailand has adhered strictly to international law and the UN Charter in its responses. He also mentioned Thailand's historical role in hosting Cambodian refugees during past civil wars in Cambodia, including the establishment of a refugee camp in Ban Nong Chan village.
The ICRC expressed support for Thailand's evidence-based approach to countering disinformation. They stated that the Thai government's campaigns to clarify things by relying on facts to counter distorted information are supported and continually encouraged by the international community.
However, the Thai diplomat who criticized Cambodia for violating the ceasefire agreement and continuing the use of anti-personnel landmines in dealings with the ICRC is not identified in the available search results.
Nonetheless, the ICRC's stance remains clear: they support Thailand's efforts to maintain peace and uphold international law in the region. The Thai government will continue to work closely with international organisations to address these concerns and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
