Thai Defense Ministry Requests to Relocate GBC Meeting to Malaysia, Citing International Norms

July 31, 2025 — Rear Admiral Surasans Kongsi, Spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Defense, confirmed that Cambodia has officially invited Acting Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakphanit to attend the Thailand-Cambodia General Border Committee (GBC) meeting scheduled for August 4, 2025, with Cambodia offering to host the event.

However, Thailand has proposed a change of venue, emphasizing international diplomatic norms. “It is generally accepted that conflict-resolution meetings between two disputing countries should not be held in either party’s territory,” said Rear Adm. Surasans. “For example, Ukraine and Russia would not meet in either of their own countries. The meeting should be held in a neutral third country.”

He reiterated that Malaysia, which has already played a role as a mediator, is the most suitable location for the meeting.

When asked whether the meeting date would remain the same, the spokesperson stated that Thailand proposed the meeting take place between August 4–7, and that the official request has just been finalized today and will be sent to both the Cambodian and Malaysian governments.

Regarding the likelihood that Cambodia will accept the new venue, Rear Adm. Surasans said, “This is our proactive stance. We believe a neutral location is appropriate. If Cambodia is sincere in its intentions, they should agree.”