Diplomatic Exchanges Heat Up Over Temple

Hor Namhong

By Heng Reaksmey, VOA Khmer
Original report from Phnom Penh
20 November 2008

Minister of Foreign Affairs Hor Namhong called the Thai ambassador to his office Thursday, in an escalating war of words between the two countries over Preah Vihear temple.

Soldiers on both sides remain in positions along disputed border regions, and the temple remains a flashpoint between the two countries. At least four soldiers have died in fighting along the border in recent months.

Hor Namhong told reporters Thursday Cambodia did not accept a statement by the Thai foreign ministry that censured the posting of flags and a signboard above the temple earlier this month.

Unesco has declared the temple a World Heritage site under the care of Cambodia, but in a memo last week, Thailand said it disapproved of the flags and sign.

The Thai foreign ministry has also decried Kathin ceremonies held at a pagoda near the temple. Both sides now claim rights to the land.