Thailand summons Cambodian envoy to protest over leaked phone call

The Thai Foreign Ministry summoned the Cambodian ambassador to Thailand today, to deliver a protest letter regarding the leak of a private conversation between Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s Senate President Hun Sen, said ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura.

Ambassador of Cambodia to Thailand Hun Saroeun receives the protest note from Piyapak Sricharoen, director general of the East Asian Affairs Department today.

The note expresses deep disappointment over the leak of a recording of a private conversation between Paetongtarn and Hun Sen.

“Trust and respect between the two leaders are fundamental to good neighborly relations and international conduct. Such actions contradict internationally accepted practices and will severely affect ongoing efforts by both sides to resolve issues in good faith,” the note stated.

At a press briefing, Nikorndej said Thailand considers these actions as unacceptable.

He emphasised that the prime minister, regardless of who holds the office, is the head of government and, “According to internationally accepted practices, the position of a head of government should be respected and honoured.”

“These actions by the Cambodian side represent a breach of diplomatic etiquette, a serious violation of trust and undermine relations between the two neighbouring countries.”

Nikorndej also described Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s phone call to Hun Sen as being conducted in a formal, cautious, transparent and mature manner, in accordance with diplomatic standards and practice.

The spokesman added that this issue is one between governments and that Thailand does not wish for it to result in misunderstandings between the peoples of the two countries.

He further remarked that Cambodia appears to use social media communication as a tool to gain popularity and divide public opinion in both nations.

“These actions reflect a lack of respect for the principles of good neighbourliness and do not deserve the trust and respect of the international community,” he concluded.