Paetongtarn clarifies misunderstanding over Cambodia's electricity, internet ban

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra believes Cambodia has misunderstood the situation, thinking that Thailand was preparing to cut electricity and internet access before launching several retaliatory measures.

This remark came after Cambodia announced the suspension of internet and electricity purchases from Thailand, as well as halting the broadcast of Thai television dramas.

Paetongtarn explained that Cambodia had acknowledged the possibility that Thailand might cut water and electricity supplies along the border. However, she clarified that any such decision would require approval from the National Security Council first, and no official announcement had been made. It was simply a preparedness measure.The Prime Minister stated that it was likely a misunderstanding that led to the belief that Thailand had already issued a statement regarding the power and water cuts. 

She stressed that this was not true, as both sides had been adjusting their forces in anticipation of a meeting of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Boundary Committee (JBC) scheduled for Saturday (June 14).

She emphasised that Thailand had not cut any water or electricity supplies to Cambodia.When asked whether further clarification would be needed, Paetongtarn indicated that the Foreign Ministry would follow up, as Thailand needs to be prepared for any situation in advance.

Regarding the upcoming JBC meeting, Paetongtarn expressed her confidence that the Thai delegation would engage in further detailed discussions, and she expected a comprehensive update to be provided to the public once the talks were concluded.

The Prime Minister also addressed the issue of Cambodia's shifting stance, noting that such changes often stemmed from the receipt of additional, unofficial information. She said that further understanding would be required to resolve these inconsistencies.



Following the conclusion of her policy announcement and the closing of the annual 2025 ambassador and consul-general conference at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok, Paetongtarn was informed of Cambodia's misunderstanding. 

This misunderstanding had led to retaliatory measures, including the closure of the Ban Laem and Ban Pakkad border checkpoints in Chanthaburi province.

She then summoned Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura for a detailed review of the events.

(2025/06/13-00:00)