Thailand Draws Firm Line Ahead of ASEAN Talks, Rejecting Ceasefire Without Full Withdrawal
Bangkok insists de-escalation must be matched by troop pullbacks as regional diplomacy intensifies
Thailand has set a clear position ahead of forthcoming ASEAN discussions, stating that it will not agree to a ceasefire unless it is accompanied by a full withdrawal of opposing forces from contested areas.
Senior Thai officials say the stance is intended to ensure that any pause in hostilities delivers genuine and lasting stability rather than freezing an untenable status quo on the ground.
Bangkok’s position comes as regional diplomats work to lower tensions and prevent further escalation through multilateral channels.
Thai authorities have emphasised that ceasefires without verifiable withdrawals risk enabling renewed pressure and undermine confidence-building efforts.
By linking any cessation of hostilities to concrete steps on the ground, Thailand says it is acting to protect national sovereignty while supporting a credible path to de-escalation.
Government representatives have underscored Thailand’s preference for dialogue within ASEAN frameworks, noting that the country remains committed to peaceful resolution through diplomacy, transparency, and adherence to agreed principles.
At the same time, officials have made clear that Thailand’s security forces will remain vigilant and prepared to defend the country’s territorial integrity should talks fail to produce meaningful outcomes.
As ASEAN prepares to convene, Thailand’s firm but measured position is expected to shape the contours of the discussions, with Bangkok seeking assurances that any agreement delivers real security guarantees and prevents a return to instability along sensitive areas.