Thai Ministers: Release of Cambodian POWs Hinges on Conditions, Not Fixed Date

BANGKOK, Nov 7 (TNA) - Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Defence Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakphanich have clarified that the reported November 12 release of 18 Cambodian prisoners of war (POWs) is merely a projection and not a fixed deadline. 

The ministers emphasized that the humanitarian release is conditional upon Cambodia fulfilling the first phase of bilateral agreements. Sihasak denied any political or economic trade-offs, specifically refuting rumors that the release was linked to zero U.S. tariffs on Thai imports, stating the decision is strictly based on the agreed-upon conditions.

Gen. Natthaphon confirmed that Thailand demands clarity on four key conditions before the release: the withdrawal of heavy weapons, mine clearing operations, addressing the scammer issue, and border management. Recent talks prioritized the withdrawal of heavy weapons and mine clearance as the crucial Phase 1 conditions. While the original completion date for these tasks was November 21, Cambodia aims to finish by November 10-12. 

The Defence Minister stressed that the release would occur as soon as these conditions are met. -819 (TNA)