The Thai-Cambodian Joint Information Coordination Center on 8 January 2026 at 13:00 hr presented frequently asked questions and answers on “Key Points from the Joint Statement of 27 December 2025: Mechanisms for Sustainable Peace, as follows:
Q1: What is the main messages of the General Border Committee (GBC) Joint Statement Paragraph 12-16?
A: They are central to transforming “agreements on paper” into “real action,” establishing clear mechanisms for monitoring, managing the situation, communication, and de-escalating tensions,
in order to build trust between Thailand and Cambodia to prevent recurring clashes.
Q2: What is the role of the ASEAN Observer (AOT)?
A: AOT acts as a neutral mechanism to observe and assist in verifying that both sides are complying with de-escalation measures. This enhances international credibility and reduces accusations of misrepresentation.
Q3: How do border coordination units help mitigate risks?
A: Border coordination units are the “front line” in managing immediate incidents, resolving problems promptly, reducing misunderstandings, and preventing miscalculations that could lead to violence. AOT participates as an observer.
Q4: Why is a direct communication channel at the ministerial and military commander levels necessary?
A: To ensure rapid and efficient decision-making in urgent situations, avoid any bureaucratic obstacles, and prevent the situation from escalating from the local to the national level.
Q5: What is the role of the Joint Coordinating Task Force (JCTF)?
A: The JCTF coordinates and facilitates humanitarian mine clearance in border areas according
to agreed-upon plans, reducing risks to civilians and creating an atmosphere of cooperation rather than confrontation.
Q6: What are the benefits of establishing a Joint Information Coordination Center?
A: It helps prevent and manage fake news or misinformation, creates transparency of information, reduces social incitement, and strengthens trust between the people of both countries.
Q7: Can these mechanisms truly prevent a future recurrence of clashes?
A: These mechanisms do not rely solely on “promises,” but involve monitoring, communication,
and incident management at all levels, thus reducing the likelihood of repeated clashes and building a foundation for lasting peace.
Q8: How will the public directly benefit?
A: People in border areas will be safer, rumors and panic will be reduced, they will receive accurate information, and see peaceful cooperation instead of confrontation.
Q9: What principles does Thailand adhere to in implementing this statement?
A: Thailand adheres to the principles of peaceful methods, international law, transparency, and regional cooperation. Thailand aims to safeguard sovereignty while maintaining stability and peace in the region.