Thailand Uses 'Time' as Diplomatic Weapon Against Cambodia Over Border Dispute

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet asserts that Cambodia will not accept forced changes to the Thai-Cambodian border, following a trilateral meeting.

The discussions took place in Cebu, Philippines, prior to the 48th ASEAN Summit, involving leaders from Thailand and the Philippines.

Hun Manet reiterated that the border cannot be changed by force and called for immediate action based on a December 27, 256X joint statement, emphasizing the Joint Border Committee (JBC).

Beyond land borders, Cambodia and Thailand also discussed overlapping maritime disputes in the Gulf of Thailand, with Cambodia seeking peaceful resolution.

Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin informed Cambodian leaders about the cancellation of the MOU C4 and stressed Thailand's focus on national interests and sovereignty, advocating a gradual relationship improvement.

A 'Khat Khao' page analysis suggests Thailand is using 'hourglass diplomacy,' where patience is a strategic advantage, contrasting with Cambodia's urgency.

The analysis highlights Thailand's advantages in the OCA (energy) and land border disputes, noting Cambodia's energy dependence and Thailand's non-adherence to ICJ rulings.

The 'Khat Khao' analysis posits that the party that reacts first in grey areas loses, framing Thailand's patience as a winning strategy.

A 'Thailand Fact Today' post suggests Thailand's participation in the trilateral meeting is a strategic move to control the situation within the ASEAN framework.

Thailand is confident in its position, emphasizing its lack of aggression and willingness to have third parties witness the truth, highlighting sincerity as a key strength.

Thailand is using the Philippines, as ASEAN chair, to facilitate discussions within the regional bloc, preferring it over intervention by major powers.

Thailand's calm and reasoned approach is presented as mature diplomacy, appealing to ASEAN members and foreign investors concerned about stability.

Thailand's proposal for joint confidence-building measures between foreign ministers indicates a long-term strategy to manage the situation and avoid uncontrolled escalation.

The situation is framed as geopolitical management in a fragile world, where choosing the right arena for negotiation is crucial.

Thailand is portrayed as experienced in this type of diplomatic game, having successfully navigated similar situations before by demonstrating sincerity.

Thailand is shifting the pressure back to Cambodia, forcing them to decide whether to be a friend to Thailand or risk another loss.

The segment concludes by highlighting this as an example of 'Siam's diplomatic strategy.'

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