Thailand to discuss Tri Muk Pavilion fire with Cambodia
Thai government officials are gearing up for urgent talks with Cambodia following a fire that tore through the Tri Muk Pavilion in the Emerald Triangle, a symbolic structure of unity between Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed the discussions will take place at the 17th Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) tomorrow, with Thailand hosting the session.
Despite rampant online speculation, Phumtham dismissed claims that the blaze was a deliberate act of aggression.
“This was not an act of hostility towards Thailand.”
The Tri Muk Pavilion, built nearly 30 years ago by soldiers from all three nations, sits within a protected 12-square-kilometre forest area in the Emerald Triangle, where the three countries’ borders meet. It has long stood as a symbol of regional cooperation, making its destruction a sensitive issue.
Major General Winthai Suvaree, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Army, reported that the fire originated in a nearby village before spreading to the pavilion. His statement aligns with a report from the Suranari Task Force, which has been monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, video clips circulating online added fuel to the fire, quite literally. The footage allegedly shows Cambodian soldiers lowering a Thai flag and cutting through barbed wire placed by Thai troops at the border. However, the army has dismissed these claims for now, stating the clips are under investigation, reported Bangkok Post.
“Preliminary findings suggest the footage was recorded long ago and is unrelated to the recent fire,” Winthai clarified.
Defence Ministry spokesperson Maj. Gen. Thanathip Sawangsang assured the public that Thailand is prioritising diplomacy over conflict.
“Any issues will be resolved through dialogue, not force.”
As Thai and Cambodian officials prepare for tomorrow’s high-stakes meeting, the focus will be on preventing further tensions and ensuring that the destruction of the Tri Muk Pavilion does not escalate into a larger border dispute.
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