Thais gather in support of their troops

Hundreds of Thais gathered today to offer moral support and deliver encouraging messages to the armed forces, especially to frontline soldiers involved in the recent clashes with Cambodian troops.

The group was led by veteran political activists Jatuporn Prompan and Phichit Chaimongkhon.

Maj Gen Narongchai Chaiyanach, Secretary of the Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, accepted the group’s letter and bouquets of flowers on behalf of the military.

Supporters carried placards, bearing messages such as: “Love you, Thailand and Thai soldiers,” “Thank you, soldiers, for protecting our sovereignty,” and “Cambodia, an aggressor violating Thai territory.”

Phichit said the gathering was intended to express concern for and encouragement to all three branches of the military, the police and other frontline personnel.

The group’s aim is to convey their backing for the armed forces in taking a leading role in defending national sovereignty.

He claimed that the recent clashes with Cambodia were largely rooted in political issues, particularly the weakness of Thai diplomacy, which he believes contributed to the outbreak of the conflict which lasted several days. The violence has resulted in casualties among civilians, soldiers and the police.

Jatuporn told the media that, during the ceasefire talks held in Malaysia yesterday, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet appeared better prepared than Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.