BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiamphong reaffirmed the strong relationship between Thailand and Cambodia at all levels. Discussions between the two nations continue to address key issues such as the Mekong River, PM 2.5 pollution, and efforts to prevent call center scams from relocating their operations to Cambodia and other neighboring countries.
Regarding the proposal to construct a border wall, Minister Maris clarified that it remains a preliminary idea from local authorities and has not reached the level of a directive from the Prime Minister. He emphasized the need to weigh its benefits, drawbacks, and potential impact on people on both sides of the border.
During his visit to Cambodia from March 7-9, Minister Maris attended an invitation from Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn to co-chair a friendly football match organized by the Bodhikhaya Institute 980. The event aimed to foster unity through sports while incorporating Buddhist teachings.
Maris highlighted that Thailand and Cambodia enjoy close ties at all levels, including between their leaders, ministers, businesses, and the public. His visit aimed to further strengthen these bonds, ensuring that positive state-level relations translate into stronger economic and social cooperation between the two nations.
“Government-to-government cooperation ultimately depends on support from the private sector and the public. Ensuring that strong diplomatic ties extend across all sectors will create a lasting and sustainable relationship,” Maris stated. He cited ongoing discussions on resolving Mekong River-related challenges, tackling PM 2.5 air pollution, and combating fraudulent call center operations as evidence of the two nations’ continued collaboration. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet have also maintained regular communication to strengthen bilateral ties.
On tackling cross-border call center scams, Maris acknowledged that Thailand has yet to fully resolve similar issues on the Thai-Myanmar border. He emphasized Thailand’s commitment to repatriating victims of scam operations while working closely with Cambodia’s Foreign Ministry and military to prevent such criminal networks from moving their operations into Cambodia.
“These scam operations are not just an issue between Thailand and its neighbors—they involve international criminal networks. That’s why regional cooperation is crucial,” Maris explained. He reaffirmed the Thai government’s determination, under Prime Minister Paetongtarn, to decisively eliminate these threats.
Thailand is continuously monitoring potential relocation efforts by scammers, and discussions have already taken place with Cambodia and Laos on proactive measures. “Whenever we detect warning signs, we will act immediately. That does not mean we are doing nothing now—we are already addressing these issues,” he added.
When asked about reports that Thailand is considering building a border wall to combat cross-border crime and smuggling, Maris clarified that this idea originated from local agencies rather than the Prime Minister. He stressed that such a proposal would require thorough discussion, particularly with Cambodian counterparts, before any decisions could be made.
“For now, it remains an idea at the agency level, and we need to consider all factors, including its impact on people’s lives and the financial feasibility. It is not an official directive, and we are still gathering opinions on the matter,” Maris stated.
He reiterated that the Thai government remains focused on problem-solving within realistic limits and will continue evaluating potential solutions in consultation with all stakeholders.
