PM Vows Peaceful Solutions to Disputes with Cambodia

2 November 2009

(Posted by CAAI News Media)

The prime minister vows to peacefully settle conflicts with Cambodia, particularly concerning the recent controversial statement by the Cambodian prime minister.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva stressed that the government will make efforts to settle any conflicts with Cambodia in a peaceful manner, keeping in mind the nation's territorial rights.

Abhisit's explanation came in response to the question by appointed senator Kamnoon Sittisaman during today's Senate meeting.

The prime minister said Deputy Prime Minister in charge of national security Suthep Thaugsuban has clarified various issues, particularly inaccurate information, with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and the Cambodian ambassador to Bangkok.

Abhisit expressed belief that the conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia would not get out of hand.

The prime minister went on to say that in the parliamentary meeting next week, the government will review the minute of the meeting of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Commission on land border demarcation.

He noted that the minute will be considered according to procedure as stipulated by Section 190 of the Constitution.

Meanwhile, Abhisit said he does not oppose setting up a joint parliamentary committee to handle the review as proposed by Kamnoon.

Regarding the demarcation of the Thai-Cambodian border, Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya said the Thai government is trying to hold bilateral talks with Cambodia.

He added that he does not object to requests by archaeologists to join inspection trips across the border.

Kasit revealed that, so far, the government has been able to plant 48 out of 73 markers to demarcate the border.

Meanwhile, the Patriotic Thais Club today submitted a letter to the prime minister at Parliament, urging the government to launch serious measures against and stop giving any aid to Cambodia.

The group then lodged a petition with the Cambodian embassy in Bangkok, demanding that the Cambodian government issue an apology and withdraw troops from the Preah Vihear Temple within three days.