Thai foreign minister visits Myanmar border amid rising tensions, prepares for possible refugee influx
Thailand's foreign minister
'Thailand's Foreign Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, embarked on a visit to the Myanmar border on Friday (Apr 12) in the aftermath of recent clashes between junta fighters andethnic minority armed groups.During his visit, Foreign Minister Parnpree will assess the preparations for managing a potential influx of refugees from Myanmar.
The fighting have resulted in the displacement of junta troops from their stronghold in Myawaddy within Myanmar. It is located on the border with Thailand, opposite the Thai town of Mae Sot, and is a strategic location and an essential gateway for trade between Myanmar and Thailand as it facilitates the movement of goods, people, and services between the two countries.
The conflict has particularly impacted the border town of Myawaddy, with civilians fleeing into Thailand to seek refuge from the turmoil.
Karen National Union (KNU), one of the most prominent ethnic armed groups in Myanmar that advocates for the rights and autonomy of the Karen people, told AFP news agency that the displaced junta troops were spotted near the terminus of one of the Friendship bridges on the Myanmar side.
Despite the tense situation, reports from AFP suggested a semblance of calm along the Moei River.
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"Happy" sentiments were expressed by a truck driver arriving at a Thai checkpoint as he was relieved to have safely crossed back into Thailand.
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Meanwhile, the Myanmar junta has reportedly dispatched reinforcements towards Myawaddy in response to the escalating clashes.
Thai Prime Minister's Stance
Taking note of the ongoing crisis, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reaffirmed the nation's stance on border security. In connection to the recent clashes in Myawaddy, he said that Thailand "won't allow anyone to get in our airspace".
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Amid these developments, Thailand earlier said that the country stands ready to accommodate up to 100,000 individuals fleeing from Myanmar.
(With inputs from agencies)