Noppadon Pattama Proposes 5-Point Plan to Resolve Thai-Cambodian Border Issues

Bangkok, Thailand – Former Foreign Minister and prominent “Noppadon” MP, Noppadon Pattama, has put forth a complete five-point strategy aimed at de-escalating and resolving the ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Speaking on August 3, 2025, Pattama emphasized the critical need for swift and decisive diplomacy, coupled with a strong assertion of thailand’s legitimacy on the international stage.

Pattama outlined his proposed goals and strategies for negotiation,stressing that a proactive and well-communicated approach is paramount to restoring peace to the border region.

The core of his proposal includes:

1. Accelerated Diplomatic Engagement: Pattama advocates for a “Diplomacy of Speed,” prioritizing rapid and accurate diplomatic communication. He believes Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs possesses the capability to outpace Cambodia in this regard, ensuring Thailand’s position is clearly and promptly articulated.
2. Reinforcing Thailand’s Global Legitimacy: The former minister stressed the importance of actively and continuously building a case for Thailand’s righteousness on the world stage. As a “medium-sized superpower,” he argued, Thailand must champion international law and justice, asserting that “right is might” in the current global climate.
3. Documenting and Disseminating Thai Legitimacy: Pattama detailed five key areas where Thailand’s legitimacy must be consistently reinforced:
   • Thailand’s commitment to peaceful resolution through negotiation, adhering to the 2000 MOU framework, wich he claims Cambodia has not upheld.
   • Cambodia’s alleged violation of the Ottawa Convention.
   • Cambodia’s alleged invasion of Thai territory, violating UN rules, with Thailand exercising its right to self-defence.
   • Cambodia’s alleged bombing of civilian targets, such as hospitals and convenience stores, violating the Geneva Conventions.
   • Cambodia’s alleged violation of agreed-upon terms in a previous agreement mediated in Malaysia.

   Pattama insisted that these five points require continuous reinforcement to ensure the global community is fully informed.

4. Demanding Sincerity in Negotiations: Whether at the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting on August 4, 2025, or the Joint Border Committee (JBC) in September 2025, Pattama urged Thailand, as a party negotiating in good faith, to demand greater sincerity from Cambodia. He stated that without genuine intent at the negotiating table, the chances of success are considerably diminished.
5. Enhancing Government Communication and Responsiveness: Pattama called for more efficient and unified government communication systems. He urged the government to be open to criticism, implement improvements, and prioritize the speed and dissemination of accurate facts. He also suggested that the Anti-Fake News Center shoudl operate with greater alacrity.

“I recognize that the Thai-Cambodian issues are complex and will require time to resolve,” Pattama concluded. “Though, I have faith in the army’s ability to protect our sovereignty. If Thai diplomacy can effectively maintain its legitimacy on the world stage, focus on communication, and provide timely and factual information to the public, I believe the problem will move in a better direction. I urge support for the dedicated staff and the government as they work to address these challenges.”