The Prime Minister revealed he clarified the Cambodian dispute to President Macron, affirming Thailand's sovereignty protection and emphasizing readiness to respond fully if attacked. UNESCO will also survey World Heritage damage on the Thai side.
On 26 May 2026, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, disclosed the outcome of discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, where he frankly explained the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which has involved both military and diplomatic responses.
Mr. Anutin stated that it is fortunate to serve as Prime Minister at this time, as over the past eight months, overseeing security and leading the Bhumjaithai Party which holds political influence in nearly all border provinces, he has visited and worked closely with personnel in security, governance, and public health, even standing at actual conflict zones.
“Leaders or representatives from other countries rely on reports from their officials, but for Thailand, I am that official. So when Thailand is accused of actions or bullying the weaker side, I can clarify with direct eye contact, confidently presenting evidence from my own photographs,” the Prime Minister said.
Mr. Anutin added that he showed personal mobile phone photos to President Macron to demonstrate the facts and assure that Thailand properly upholds sovereignty and public safety. He stressed to the French leader that “Thailand positions itself as a protector of sovereignty and self-defense, but certainly if invaded, we will respond decisively.”
Additionally, during his visit to France, the Prime Minister met with UNESCO representatives, who informed him that Cambodia requested an inspection of World Heritage temples to assess damage from Thai military attacks. Mr. Anutin welcomed this reasonable request but immediately demanded UNESCO also survey the Thai side to allow the international community to see the full picture from both sides, not just Cambodian claims. This visit presented a good opportunity for the Thai government to clearly explain and clarify the situation abroad.