Kasit: Cambodian has much to explain

via CAAI

Published: 9/02/2011

Clashes between Thai and Cambodian soldiers along the border since Friday had demonstrated the clear strength of the Thai army, Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya said on Wednesday.

"In the fighting the Thai army fired at Cambodia's military zones, while Cambodian soldiers fired at our villages.

Indonesian Foreign Minister and Asean chair Marty Natalegawa (left) meets Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya to discuss the Thai-Cambodian border issue on Feb 8, 2011.

"Moreover, there were Cambodian soldiers at Preah Vihear temple, when the two countries had already agreed that they will not deploy their troops to the temple," Mr Kasit said in a television interview on Tuesday night.

Cambodia must explain these two issues to the global community, he said.

Mr Kasit said he had asked for a meeting with Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong.

"If he wants the United Nations to intervene in the border row, the Thai government is ready to clarify the situation.

"At least, the Thai government has never used the media to incite hatred," said the minister.

Cabinet ministers have been visiting areas affected by the border clashes to take care of the villagers, he added.