PM: Border Talks Focused on Arms Pullout, Not Checkpoints

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 (TNA) - Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday stressed that bilateral talks with Cambodian counterpart Hun Manet focused solely on the sincere and concrete implementation of a recent joint declaration, not the reopening of border checkpoints.

Anutin's priority was expediting a four-point plan for stability, which includes the withdrawal of heavy weapons and landmine clearance.

Speaking after their meeting in Malaysia, He urged Hun Manet to ensure the withdrawal was substantial, allowing Thailand to fulfill its part, including returning 18 Cambodian soldiers and clearing landmines.

"If it can be done today, we will withdraw our weapons as quickly and extensively as possible," he said.

He reiterated that border openings were not discussed and would only be considered once all withdrawal and clearance operations are fully complete. - 819 (TNA)