Thailand has temporarily closed two border crossings to tourists amid ongoing tensions with neighboring Cambodia. The decision follows a brief military clash on May 28 that resulted in the killing of a Cambodian soldier. Authorities cited a threat to Thailand’s sovereignty and security as the reason for the move.
The Royal Thai Army said trade would be unaffected, while six other border checkpoints tightened their opening hours and issued bans on six-wheeled vehicles. The army has reinforced its military presence at the border following an increase in troops from Cambodia.
Thailand is committed to holding bilateral talks with Cambodia on June 14 to resolve the dispute. Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet insisted that his country would not initiate conflict but defend itself. The two neighbors have disputed various un-demarcated points along their shared border for nearly two decades, resulting in at least 28 reported deaths.
The situation remains tense, with ASEAN and China making efforts to reduce tensions in recent days.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/thailand-closes-border-to-tourists-after-cambodia-clash/a-72830456