Thai Defence Minister Dismisses Report of Recent China-Cambodia Arms Transfer as 'Old News'

BANGKOK, Oct 2 (TNA) - Thai Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakpanich dismissed a recent New York Times report on Chinese arms shipments to Cambodia, stating the information was "old news" from earlier this year.

The minister said the transfer of rockets and artillery occurred before the recent Thai-Cambodia border clashes. Thai intelligence was aware of the arms support, which was the matter of international relations. 

"I already clarified with the media earlier this year, around February, that China provided arms support to Cambodia. At that time, no conflict had occurred between Thailand and Cambodia. Should a conflict and tension of this nature arise, I am confident Beijing would proceed with prudent consideration," he said.

He speculated the weapons were likely left behind after a joint military exercise and confirmed intelligence has detected no new shipments. -819 (TNA)