Talks between Thailand and Cambodia this weekend on a simmering border dispute are unlikely to yield substantive results, observers say, citing a lack of faith and even a “trust deficit” in bilateral negotiations.
Phnom Penh’s attempts to “internationalise” the issue are also unlikely to be welcomed by Bangkok, according to analysts.
On May 28, Thai and Cambodian troops were involved in a brief skirmish in Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province, which borders Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province.
Thailand, meanwhile, has stated its commitment to resolving the issue peacefully in accordance with international law and existing agreements with Cambodia.
The two neighbours have agreed to discuss the issue through the Joint Boundary Commission (JCB) set to be held in Phnom Penh on Saturday.
