Balanced diplomacy and defence can ease border tensions, Sihasak says

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow believes diplomacy is the key to resolving the long-running border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, paving the way for the creation of stable common borders free from cybercrime and drug trafficking.

In a vision speech delivered today to a gathering of Bhumjaithai Party election candidates, Sihasak said he has been approached to retain the foreign affairs portfolio in the next administration if the party becomes the core partner in forming a government.

He noted that this was the first time he had been offered such a position before an election.

He admitted that the offer made him think carefully, as the timing was awkward given the current border crisis facing the country. However, he said he has faith in diplomacy, believing that a strong foreign policy can guide Thailand through times of crisis.

Regarding relations with Cambodia, the foreign minister said he believes the government is on the right track, citing strong leadership and the right balance between military measures and diplomatic efforts.

Over the next four years, Sihasak said he hopes Thailand and Cambodia will be able to overcome their differences, while Thailand’s foreign policy creates new opportunities for the country and its people.

He stressed that the heart of foreign policy lies in balancing long-term strategy with the need to resolve immediate or short-term problems, reiterating that Thailand must overcome the border conflict with Cambodia through diplomatic means.

“If our neighbour is peaceful and prosperous, it creates a good opportunity to expand trade and investment,” he said.

With the global order being disrupted by competition for supremacy in the Asia-Pacific region among major powers, Sihasak said

Thailand must maintain strategic balance by not taking sides and by using ASEAN mechanisms to strengthen its bargaining power.

However, he emphasized that a strong foreign policy must begin at home.

Domestically, Thailand must ensure cooperation among the Foreign Ministry, the military, and the National Security Council to formulate a unified strategy, supported by close coordination between the public and private sectors in implementing strategic policies.