Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : PM says statue issue can’t compare to soldiers’ lives after India condemns removal and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
Asked about a statement by an Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson criticising the reported removal of a Hindu deity statue in the Chong An Ma area — described as a statue of Vishnu — Anutin said he had not yet received a report on the matter.
He said it was an issue to be handled through bilateral discussions under the NSC framework, and Thailand should not be shaken by matters outside that framework.
He added that the statue issue should not be weighed against the reality faced by soldiers in the conflict, saying it was not something he would compare with the loss and harm endured by troops.
On confusion surrounding Cambodia’s communications — after reports that its Defence Ministry had sent a letter seeking a ceasefire through the GBC mechanism before later denying it — Anutin said actions on the ground mattered more than what was written, arguing Thailand was responding to attacks and acting within the rules of engagement.
He said once the GBC talks concluded, both sides would follow the agreed outcomes under joint committees and, if negotiations were successful, the defence ministers of both countries would travel to sign an agreement.
He said he hoped that if a deal was signed this time, Cambodia would keep its commitments so that no further problems would arise.