Banteay Meanchey Governor affirms the area that Thais protested has long been inhabited and used by Cambodians before the 2000 MoU
Banteay Meanchey Governor affirms the area that Thais protested has long been inhabited and used by Cambodians before the 2000 MoU
Um Reatrey, Governor of Banteay Meanchey Province, clarified to the Governor of Sa Kaeo Province, Thailand, that the area in Chork Chey Village, O’Beichoan Commune, O’Chrov District, Banteay Meanchey Province — which the Sa Kaeo provincial administration protested — has long been inhabited, occupied, and utilised by Cambodian citizens well before the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two countries came into effect.
The clarification was made through an official letter dated yesterday, addressed to the Sa Kaeo Provincial Governor.
According to the letter, the temporary shelter in question was set up to ensure security, safety, and public order in the area, especially following previous tensions and incidents. It acts as a preventative and protective measure against potential risks. The Governor further reaffirmed that the gathering of Cambodian citizens in the area was solely for the purpose of safeguarding their lawful farmland, crops, and personal property.
Retary explained that the residents currently living in the temporary shelter are those directly affected by incidents involving the installation of barriers, nets, and blockades, which caused them to lose their permanent homes and seek temporary refuge in the area. This situation, he emphasised, highlights the complexity of border issues that require mutual respect for the agreements and principles previously endorsed by both countries.
The Governor also emphasised that neither provincial administration has the authority to determine border boundaries where demarcation is incomplete. According to the 2000 MOU and the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee (GBC) held on 10 September, both parties agreed to maintain the status quo until demarcation work is finished.
The Banteay Meanchey Provincial Administration reaffirmed its commitment to honour all agreements between the two governments, particularly by awaiting the outcome of the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). In the spirit of maintaining peace and stability, both provincial administrations are encouraged to continue close coordination, avoid actions that could escalate disputes or increase tensions, and manage the situation on-site peacefully.
In conclusion, Reatrey respectfully asked the Sa Kaeo Provincial Governor to be patient and wait for the JBC’s decision on the remaining border demarcation work. During this time, he encouraged both parties to maintain the spirit of friendship and neighbourliness, avoiding any actions that could cause unnecessary tension or negative outcomes for either side.
-Khmer Times-
