CHANTHABURI, Thailand — The Thai military is constructing a fortified wall topped with barbed wire along parts of the Thai-Cambodian border, a year after fighting broke out between the two countries. Although the guns have been silent for seven months, lasting peace remains elusive.
Gen. Ukrit Boontanon, supreme military commander, told Nikkei Asia during an inspection of the wall, "The safety and security of our people and the protection of Thailand's sovereignty remain our highest priority."
The construction has caused concern in Phnom Penh, where Cambodian officials suspect Thailand may be attempting to seize land. Negotiations for a permanent resolution to the border dispute have yet to resume.
Meanwhile, residents near the border on both sides are suffering from the closure of border crossings. Trade and business have largely stopped, making it difficult for many to sustain their livelihoods.
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