Border Calm Restored — Thailand and Cambodia scale back troops, eye peace talks in Phnom Penh. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s Foreign Ministry announced on Monday that although tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border have decreased, the situation remains fragile. Thailand continues to maintain strict control measures at border points while preparing new efforts to curb cross-border crime — including cutting electricity and internet access to known scam and illegal casino zones near the Cambodian side. Joint Border Patrols Signal Progress At a press briefing held at 2:50 PM, Mr. Nikorndej Balankura, Director-General of the Department of Information and Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, shared the latest developments. He confirmed that Thai and Cambodian troops conducted a joint field survey yesterday at the Choam Bok checkpoint and agreed to back down forces to positions held during normal conditions in 2024, covering up trenches as a sign of de-escalation. Mr. Nikorndej said the move reflects goodwill and sincerity from the Cambodian side and is a direct result of ongoing diplomatic talks. It also sets a positive tone ahead of the upcoming Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting scheduled for June 14 in Phnom Penh — the first since 2012. JBC: 25 Years of Border Talks Established in 2000, the JBC serves as a technical mechanism to coordinate border demarcation efforts between the two countries. It has convened ten times — five regular and five special sessions. Despite its long history, progress has been slow due to recurring tensions. However, the Foreign Ministry hopes the upcoming JBC will further de-escalate the current fragile situation and promote peaceful, long-term resolution and cooperation. Completed or ongoing projects under JBC include the Thailand-Cambodia Friendship Bridge between Ban Nong Ian and Stung Bot, and a new border crossing bridge at Ban Phak Kad in Chanthaburi Province. Visa-free stays slashed to 7 days amid ongoing security concerns along Thai-Cambodian border. New Security Crackdown on Cross-Border Crime While the diplomatic atmosphere improves, Thailand remains firm on national security. The Border Threat Prevention Command Center (BPCC) will propose new measures to the National Security Council, aiming to disrupt organized criminal activity along the border — particularly online scams, human trafficking, and illegal gambling operations. Proposed actions include: -Cutting electricity supply to scam centers and illegal casinos, -Shutting down internet signals transmitted into key border zones, -Restricting the transport of goods and equipment that could be used in -cybercrime or transnational crime. Visa Restrictions Imposed on Both Sides In a reciprocal move, both Thailand and Cambodia have reduced visa-free stays to 7 days for visitors from each other’s countries — down from the previous 60 days. Mr. Nikorndej acknowledged this change and noted that no timeline has been set for when longer visa stays might resume. He emphasized that improving the overall security situation will likely be a prerequisite for further discussions. Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nikorndej says Thai-Cambodian border tensions ease, but fragile peace demands vigilance and tighter controls. Concerns from Border Communities When asked about the fears among border residents — including reports of new bunkers being built and anxiety over possible renewed violence — Mr. Nikorndej reassured the public. “Tensions have eased significantly,” he said, pointing to yesterday’s troop repositioning and de-escalation efforts. However, he acknowledged that the situation remains “fragile” and will need careful monitoring in the coming weeks. Media Urged to Avoid Provocation The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also called on journalists and the public to exercise caution when sharing unverified information. It warned against disseminating reports that may inflame tensions or make unsubstantiated allegations against either side. As for the JBC meeting’s agenda, it remains under negotiation. Cambodia has reportedly rejected Thailand’s push to include four disputed areas. Mr. Nikorndej said it was “too early to tell” whether the topics would be included, but both sides are actively finalizing the discussion framework. While the signs of de-escalation are promising, the Thai government stresses that the road to full normalization remains delicate. Strong bilateral mechanisms — such as the JBC, General Border Committee (GBC), and Regional Border Committee (RBC) — along with civil and military diplomacy and people-to-people ties, are viewed as key tools in achieving lasting peace and stability along the Thai-Cambodian frontier.