Phnom Penh: Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reiterated Cambodia’s firm and uncompromising stance regarding the ongoing restrictions at border gates with Thailand. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Cambodia Scouts’ Extraordinary Congress held this afternoon at the National Institute of Education in Phnom Penh, Samdech Thipadei made it clear that Cambodia sees no need for negotiations over the regular operation of the shared border checkpoints.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Thipadei emphasized that Cambodia will not engage in negotiations regarding the normal functioning of the border gates. He stated that if Thailand closes the gates unilaterally, it is their responsibility to restore them unilaterally as well. Cambodia, he assured, would respond within a five-hour timeframe.
His remarks came after a 24-hour ultimatum issued by Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen during the 3rd session of the Senate on June 16 reached its deadline. In response, Cambodian authorities in the provinces bordering Thailand initiated a ban on all imports of Thai fruits and vegetables.