PAD releases 88 stranded airliners

More than 400 haj pilgrims stranded at Suvarnabhumiairport pick up their belongings yesterday before being taken to U-tapao airport for a flight to Saudi Arabia early this morning. SOMCHAIPOOMLARD

Bangkok Post
Monday December 01, 2008

Planes will help get passengers back home

International and local airlines were removing their aircraft from Suvarnabhumi airport last night after the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) agreed to release 88 planes stranded there, at the request of Airports of Thailand (AoT).

AoT acting president and Suvarnabhumi airport director Sereerat Prasutanont yesterday urged the PAD to free the fleet, both local and foreign-owned, so the airlines can take home passengers who have been marooned by the closure of the airport.

He said foreign airlines were ready to remove their planes immediately.

To ease congestion at U-tapao airport, where foreigners are queueing for flights out of the country, AoT plans to turn Bitec convention centre in Bang Na into a temporary check-in terminal or city terminal, he said.

The Bitec facility is expected to be ready soon.

Suriyasai Katasila, PAD coordinator, said the alliance had no problem if the airlines wanted to take their planes back. The PAD was also concerned about the security of the aircraft.

Airlines began flying out of the airport about 10 o'clock last night.

Earlier, Tourism and Sports Minister Weerasak Kohsurat said about 300,000 passengers had been left stranded. These included 100,000 foreign tourists caught in Thailand, and 60,000 Thais who were overseas trying to get home.

The rest were foreigners who planned to travel to Thailand but cannot get here.

Flights operating from U-tapao airport have so far sent only 30,000 passengers back to their home countries. It will take 10 days to send back all passengers.

Thai Airways International plc (THAI) yesterday arranged 31 special flights from U-tapao airport.

Hat Yai airport has begun sending flights to U-tapao airport, for passengers in the South who would like to get to Bangkok.

THAI would put on one flight a day from the southern airport to U-tapao.

The government is spending 40 million baht a day taking care of passengers left stranded following the closure of the two main airports.

Earlier yesterday, a PAD member said PAD had dispatched security guards to prevent people entering the area where aircraft are parked. The PAD has also asked AoT to send officials to guard aircraft and runways at the two airports.

PAD leader Maj-Gen Chamlong Srimuang yesterday wrote to Mr Sereerat asking him to beef up security for aircraft and runways at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.

Tourists wanting to leave the country are also flocking to Songkhla's Hat Yai district to catch buses and vans to neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore.

Malaysian and Singaporean tourists visiting the South are catching buses and vans in Hat Yai back to their countries.

Some tourists from European countries are also heading for Hat Yai, where they catch vans to Malaysia and Singapore for flights to their countries.

Foreign govts frustrated by Thai airport siege

BANGKOK, Nov 30 (Reuters) - Australia's foreign minister expressed frustration on Sunday at the closure of Bangkok's international airport and said his government was pressing Thai authorities to do more to get stranded tourists out.

Other foreign governments are increasingly concerned at the closure of Suvarnabhumi airport since Tuesday by political protesters as part of their campaign to topple the government of Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat. [IDn:LT697926]

Australia's Stephen Smith said hundreds of Australians were still stranded in Thailand and national carrier Qantas (QAN.AX: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) had offered to put on additional flights to take them home.

"It's very frustrating for us and it's very frustrating for those stranded Australians," he told Australian television.

Qantas said it will operate a special service from Phuket to Singapore on Monday night for Australian tourists stranded in Thailand.

The Thai government is shuttling tourists to U-Tapao, a Vietnam War-era air base 150 km (90 miles) east of Bangkok, as an alternative landing site for airlines, but travellers have complained of long delays and confusion.

Several major Asian carriers have announced special flights to pick up passengers and crew from U-Tapoa or other Thai airports.

China's official Xinhua news agency said on Sunday the first return flights from Thailand reached Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou early on Sunday. Xinhua cited estimates that over 3,500 Chinese tourists have been stranded in Thailand.

The U.S. embassy in Bangkok said it had asked the Thai foreign ministry to provide "appropriate compensation" to U.S. citizens stranded by the closure of Suvarnabhumi and the older Don Muang airport, a big domestic hub.

It said "large numbers" of Americans were unable to leave Thailand and expressed its deep concern to the Thai government.

The European Union also voiced concern in a statement issued in Bangkok by EU ambassadors.

"While respecting the right of protesting and without interfering in any way with the internal political debate in Thailand, the EU considers that these actions are totally inappropriate. They are seriously damaging the international image of Thailand," it said.

"We urge the protesters to evacuate the airports peacefully without delay in order to avoid a major consular crisis and its economic consequences for Thailand," it added.

Canadian Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and advised Canadians to stay away from areas where protests were going on, although he noted in a statement that people were free to move around Bangkok.

(Reporting by Alan Raybould; Editing by David Fox and Valerie Lee)

Darwinian Struggle To Find Ticket Out Of Thailand

http://www.scoop.co.nz

New Zealand

Monday, 1 December 2008
Column: Richard S. Ehrlich

BANGKOK, Thailand -- Emergency flights are evacuating thousands of Bangkok's grounded passengers, but that is only a trickle of the 100,000 or more people who want to escape this country's insurrection.

Grenade attacks wounded 51 anti-government protestors on Sunday, heightening fear among travelers stuck in Thailand, though no passengers have been hurt.

In a Darwinian struggle, the rich buy tickets for expensive helicopters and chartered planes, flying from airstrips elsewhere in Thailand, while protesters blockade Bangkok's international and domestic airports.

Others desperately scramble into taxis, buses and trains to reach those few scattered airports, only to find thousands of people in similar straits, sweating, arguing or grinning when told that some waiting lists already include thousands of other names.

One possible way to fly out of Thailand is from U-Tapao's runways, built by America to launch B-52 bombers and other warplanes against Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Today, U-Tapao is a Thai navy base ringed by armed troops, who are letting in baggage-toting travelers for a small number of diverted flights out.

Unlike the zero security at Bangkok's two airports, Thai navy officials said they would use force to protect U-Tapao if any anti-government protesters try to blockade the sprawling facility.

U-Tapao is about 90 miles (140 kilometers) southeast of Bangkok, near Pattaya, an infamously hedonistic, seaside holiday destination.

Some chose to travel overland across into Laos, Cambodia, or Malaysia and hope for international flights from there, or from southern Thailand's Phuket island.

Coming the other way, more travelers arrived in Bangkok on Sunday by bus and train from elsewhere in the region, including many who were on holidays in Thailand's lush countryside, or in China, Burma, Laos, Cambodia or Vietnam.

Bangkok is a regional hub for international flights, so some incoming overland travelers had their return bookings scheduled for Sunday, or later this week, and were aggravated to hear the blockade had not been lifted.

The protesters' occupation of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport since Tuesday, and domestic Don Muang airport since Wednesday, destroyed much of Thailand's ability to fly people in and out of this Buddhist-majority Southeast Asian country, or airfreight imports and exports.

Thailand is hemorrhaging nearly 100 million U.S. dollars a day in lost tourism, restaurant, hotel, import, export and other revenue, after anti-government protesters shut down this country's two biggest airports without firing a shot.

In a bizarre breach of airport security, Thailand's security officials passively allowed thousands of shouting, club-wielding protestors to march into Bangkok's international airport on Tuesday, and occupy its lavish, sprawling departure and arrival lounges, passport control areas, customs offices, and ultimately its control tower.

A day later, Thailand's security forces stood by and allowed anti-government protesters to seize Bangkok's smaller, domestic airport.

Several commercial airlines also discovered about 90 of their planes were trapped on the tarmac, unable to lift off.

Those planes are still parked next to the airports' abandoned gates, costing the airline companies countless dollars in lost ticket sales and eventual maintenance problems.

The protesters are led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), who want to cancel the last election which their preferred politicians lost, and replace democratic voting with a vague system of appointed politicians.

The elitist, rightwing, royalist PAD leads a minority of urban wealthy and middle class protesters against Thailand's majority rural poor and their supporters.

The PAD insists the poor are too ignorant, and easily bribed, to vote correctly.

The PAD is led by Sondhi Limthongkul who is a frustrated telecommunications tycoon.

His sidekick is retired Maj-Gen Chamlong Srimuang who is a Buddhist spiritualist, alcohol prohibitionist and successful anti-abortion campaigner.

They refuse to vacate Bangkok's two airports until they oust Somchai Wongsawat, who became prime minister in September and leads a hugely popular People Power Party in a coalition.

Mr. Somchai is a brother-in-law of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was toppled in a 2006 military coup which was cheered by the PAD.

The protesters want all of Mr. Thaksin's political allies barred from politics.

Mr. Thaksin is an international fugitive, along with his wife, after the couple were recently convicted of corruption, and both sentenced to three years imprisonment.

Meanwhile on Sunday, a grenade injured 49 protesters who have illegally occupied the prime minister's Government House offices downtown since August.

About 20 minutes later, two more devices exploded at PAD leader Sondhi's television station, without injuring anyone, and not disrupting his propaganda broadcasts.

But two people were reportedly injured on Sunday in an explosion near Bangkok's Don Muang domestic airport.

Police were unable, or unwilling, to confront protestors at Bangkok's two airports on Sunday.

More than 100 police retreated so rapidly from Suvarnabhumi International Airport on Saturday that protesters were able to collect several police riot shields, and deflate the tires of a few police vans.

Many Thais expect a possible breakthrough on December 2, when a Constitutional Court may rule on alleged electoral fraud by the government's ruling People Power Party, and two smaller parties, which could result in their dissolution.

But the PPP may simply join a different, newly created party, to stay in power.

The other date Thais are focusing on is December 4, when revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej traditionally gives a speech one day before his birthday.

Thais usually ensure the country is calm, peaceful and united during the monarch's birthday, which has led some to predict a possible end to the airports' occupation by then.

The Land of Smile or the Land of Violence?

Thousands of pro-government supporters rally in Bangkok November 30, 2008. Thai police on Sunday ordered thousands of anti-government protesters who have laid siege to the city's airports to disperse, banning gatherings of more than five people and warning offenders would be jailed or fined. The stakes rose as thousands of pro-government supporters also rallied in the Thai capital, their first significant show of strength since the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) launched its "final battle" on Monday to unseat the government.REUTERS/Sukree Sukplang (THAILAND)

A view of the exterior of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport November 30, 2008. Thai police on Sunday ordered thousands of anti-government protesters who have laid siege to the city's airports to disperse, banning gatherings of more than five people and warning offenders would be jailed or fined.REUTERS/Chaiwat Subprasom (THAILAND)

Policemen officers stand guard on the main road to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport November 30, 2008. Thai police on Sunday again ordered anti-government protesters who have laid siege to the city's airports to disperse, banning gatherings of more than five people and warning offenders would be jailed or fined.REUTERS/Chaiwat Subprasom (THAILAND)

Hundreds of Thai riot policemen line-up in formation, facing a road block set up by anti-government demonstrators near Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport November 30, 2008. Thai police on Sunday again ordered anti-government protesters who have laid siege to the city's airports to disperse, banning gatherings of more than five people and warning offenders would be jailed or fined.REUTERS/Adrees Latif (THAILAND)

The Land of RED and YELLOW, who will be the winner?

ANTI-GOVERNMENT (YELLOW COLOUR)

An anti-government rally at Suvanabhum airport in Bangkok. Anti-government protesters on Saturday ignored orders to leave one of Bangkok's besieged airports and faced off with Thai police, raising fears of clashes as crippling demonstrations escalated.(AFP/Hoang Dinh Nam)

Anti-government protesters cheer as they join thousands of others after breaking through an attempted police roadblock near the Suvarnabhumi airport compound early Sunday Nov. 30, 2008, in Bangkok, Thailand. Anti-government protesters who have closed down Bangkok's airports broke through a police cordon meant to shut them off from supplies, raising fears Saturday of widening confrontations in the standoff that has strangled the country's economy.(AP Photo/Ed Wray)

PRO-GOVERNMENT ( RED COLOUR)

Pro-government demonstrators with one holding a portrait of ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra gather during a rally to support Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat outside city hall Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. About 5,000 people took part in the demonstration. Attackers set off explosions at anti-government protest sites Sunday, wounding 51 people and raising fears of widening confrontations in Thailand's worst political crisis that has strangled its economy and shut down its main airports.(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

Thousands of pro-government supporters hold a rally in Bangkok November 30, 2008. Thai police on Sunday ordered thousands of anti-government protesters who have laid siege to the city's airports to disperse, banning gatherings of more than five people and warning offenders would be jailed or fined. The stakes rose as thousands of pro-government supporters also rallied in the Thai capital, their first significant show of strength since the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) launched its "final battle" on Monday to unseat the government.REUTERS/Darren Whiteside (THAILAND)

A girl holds a Thai flag during a rally by thousands of pro-government supporters in Bangkok November 30, 2008. Thai police on Sunday ordered thousands of anti-government protesters who have laid siege to the city's airports to disperse, banning gatherings of more than five people and warning offenders would be jailed or fined. The stakes rose as thousands of pro-government supporters also rallied in the Thai capital, their first significant show of strength since the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) launched its "final battle" on Monday to unseat the government.REUTERS/Darren Whiteside (THAILAND)

Global Witness Encourages Donor Countries to Put Pressure on the Hole-in-the-Basket Government - Saturday, 29.11.2008

Posted on 30 November 2008
The Mirror, Vol. 12, No. 588

“A few days ahead of the meeting between big donor countries and international organizations and leaders of the Cambodian government, an organization, also big in the world, issued a statement for international donor countries to put pressure on the Hun Sen Cambodian People’s Party government to change the tradition and to eliminate corruption, and change its conduct of human rights abuses from which Khmer citizens suffer.

“Global Witness, an organization that works actively to protect both the natural environment of Cambodia and Khmer citizens, released a statement, talking in detail about corruption under the responsibility of the Hun Sen Cambodian People’s Party government, on the destruction of the natural resources of Cambodia, and on human rights abuses, where Khmer citizens are the victims.

“According to a report of Global Witness which is based in London, the Hun Sen Cambodian People’s Party government did not make any improvement for Cambodia and for Khmer citizens during five years. The report directly addresses corruption against which, so far, the Hun Sen government has not created a law to suppress it effectively, a law against corrupt officials, who are mostly officials of the Cambodian People’s Party.

“This organization talked also about the human rights abuses happening around the country. This is entirely in line with the previous information from other human rights working groups, including high ranking representatives of the United Nations. It is almost entirely the same as a report of Mr. Yash Ghai, formerly the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General for Human Rights in Cambodia, who conducted studies, covered information and then released the report, stating that Hun Sen’s Cambodian People’s Party government lets human rights abuses happen against citizens, and he wrote that the power in Cambodia is gathered in the hands of one person, referring to Mr. Hun Sen of the Cambodian People’s Party.

“Global Witness talked also about the destruction of the country, including of the forests. An important concern for donor countries and for important individual observers from other parts of the world are the natural oil and gas resources which are in the initial process towards exploitation, to extract oil from the bottom of the Cambodian sea.

“This problem is raised while also important economists in the world used to comment to the Cambodian government: that not only the present Cambodian People’s Party government, but also any future governments will have to carefully think about the income from oil resources.

“Oil experts and economists have expressed concerns with the ruling of the country by the Hun Sen Cambodian People’s Party, which rules, including with very corrupt leadership, destroying resources of the country. Especially, the concerns related to corruption invite the anxiety that the exploitation of oil and gas, natural resources of Cambodia to be extracted from 2009 at the latest, might be ruined by corruption. The national income, which is estimated to be billions of dollar, might disappear by actions of corrupt officials.

“Oil in the Cambodian sea is estimated to provide millions of barrels and will make billions of dollar. It is enough to convert Cambodia into a developed country so that citizens can avoid poverty and misery, if the Cambodian leadership is competent to eliminate corruption.

“This concern is based on the the bad signals of a model like Nigeria in Africa, where there are oil resources worth billions of dollar, but so far, because corrupt officials control the sector of oil resource, the people of Nigeria are still poor. It is a disease which is named the ‘oil curse.’ Although Nigeria has oil resource worth billions of dollar, foreign loan to this country have grown, and the Nigerian people still live in poverty.

Note:

See also StatoilHydro’s Libyan “corruption” scandal shows need for oil industry disclosure laws. Troubling questions remain about oil deals in Libya and Angola.

A scandal over questionable oil industry payments in Libya, brought to light by the giant Norwegian company StatoilHydro, underlines the need for tougher regulations to deter companies from making undisclosed payments in return for access to oil rights.

“Because of the release of a statement by Global Witness some days ago, the Cambodian Ambassador in England responded by criticizing the statement of concerns by this global environmental organization about corruption in Cambodia.

“The mission of Global Witness, formerly supported by the World Bank, had been brought to an end by the Hun Sen government a few years ago, because it collected information, with photos attached, with claims and witnesses, about corruption and crimes of forest destruction in Cambodia, committed by high ranking officials of the Cambodian People’s Party government who collude with businesspeople as their partners.

“On 1 June 2006, just a few days after Mr. Hun Sen’s statement, boasting that there was no corruption leading to the destruction of forests in Cambodia, Global Witness released a document which precisely linked different witnesses and photos under the tile ‘Cambodia’s Family Trees – Illegal logging and the stripping of public assets by Cambodia’s elite.’ This organization mentioned officials of the Hun Sen government by name, saying that they are in the list of those ‘stripping of public assets,’ those who continue crimes of forest destruction in Cambodia.

“The meeting between donor countries and leaders of the Cambodian government will be held next week on 3 December 2008. At that time, the Hun Sen government plans to ask for much international aid of more than US$500 million.

“Global Witness, civil society organizations, and non-government organizations that closely observe the restoration of the Cambodian society and economy, both of politics and of human rights, welcome international aid, but they want the aid to be used efficiently, avoiding corruption. Therefore, Global Witness asked representatives of donor countries to put pressure on the Cambodian People’s Party to eliminate corruption, in order to bring the culture of exploiting the nation and the citizens to an end, a culture which increases the wealth of the powerful leaders who collude with businesspeople.”

Khmer Machas Srok, Vol.2, #293, 29.11.2008
Newspapers Appearing on the Newsstand:

Saturday, 29 November 2008

Yellow, red camps bring country closer to the brink

By The Nation

Sporadic lawlessness spreading on both sides of conflict as Thailand is named "one of most dangerous places on earth"

Sporadic mob rules have threatened to take on a far larger scale this weekend, with protesters on both sides of the political showdown showing less and less respect for the rule of law and human rights.

After the Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang airports have fallen to the yellow-shirt People's Alliance for Democracy, now the Constitution Court is in danger of being surrounded by red-shirt pro-government protesters and nobody knows what is going to happen if the court on Tuesday decides to disband three ruling parties.

Equally worrisome are minor incidents across the country. Vendors watching ASTV have been intimidated by red-shirt people. PAD protesters have fired on a reporter's car, although that was described as a mistake (the car was mistaken as that of assailants). Southern anti-government protesters have threatened to seize provincial halls in all 14 southern provinces if a crackdown was initiated against Suvarnabhumi protesters.

Prime Minister Somchai yesterday took a pilgrimage to pay respect to a Buddhist holy site in Nakhon Phanom while redshirt crowds have threatened to become vigilantes to punish yellowshirt protesters.

Somchai went to pray before the Buddha's relic at Wat Phra That Phanom, People Power Party MP Paijit Srivorakan said.

Following his visit to the temple, he would spend a night in Udon Thani where a pro-government rally took place. He is expected today to return to his temporary office in Chiang Mai.

Paijit said northeastern constituents as well as their MPs would rally to show moral support for the prime minister.

In Chiang Mai, several pickup trucks filled with progovernment crowds were driven to a number of crowded public places rousing the people to take the law into their hands and attack the yellowshirt protesters and their supporters.

In the message, people have been encouraged to identify and shut down businesses and shops run by or linked to the protesters led by The People's Alliance for Democracy.

On Friday's night, a number of redshirt men forced a noodle vendor at Nong Hoy market to close down on the ground for watching the antigovernment programmed aired by ASTV satellite station.

Between Friday and yesterday, redshirt crowds distributed flyers in English to foreign visitors criticising the seizure of two major airports at Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi.

Speaking in the capital, Democrat Party spokesman Buranat Samutarak warned that the chance for a negotiated settlement was fast diminishing as time dragged on.

The country is heading for unprecedented violence and bloodshed, he said.

He called for Interior Minister Kowit Watana, who is in charge of crowd control, to quickly commence negotiations with the PAD before it was too late.

He went on to criticise former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra for resuming his political activities which have in turn inflamed the situation.

The situation might turn into a violent mayhem following yesterday's rally by the redshirt crowds at Sanam Luang, he said.

In Udon Thani, about 10,000 redshirt crowds rallied to support the government and safeguard Somchai during his overnight stay, organiser Kwanchai Praipana said.

Kwanchai said each northeaster constituency would mobilise about 20,000 people to rally in Bangkok on Tuesday in order to oppose the anticipated disbandment of the ruling party.

He called on the government to allow redshirt crowds to disperse the yellowshirt protesters if police failed to do their job.

Two MPs from Lop Buri, Suchart Lainamngern and Amnuay Klangpha, predicted that more than 100,000 redshirt crowds would turn out to rally by Tuesday in order to counter the PADled protests.

The PAD has, meanwhile, been mobilising the protesters from the 14 southern provinces to reinforce the antigovernment crowds at the three rally sites, Government House, Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi.

PAD's Nakhon Si Thammarat chapter leader Osoth Suwansawaet said each local chaper was responsible for dispatching 200300 protesters daily to the three rally sites.

Osoth said PADled protesters were fully braced for crowd dispersal measures and would fight if redshirt crowds descended on them.

He threatened to seize every provincial hall and block interprovincial roads in the South if police cracked down on protesters at the two airports.

Nakhon Si Thammarat governor Panu Uthairat and his counterpart in Songkhla Sonthi Techanan said they had taken precautionary measures to preempt any attempts to blockade provincial halls.

Government spokesman Natthawut Saikua said it was evident from news clips that PADled protesters were armed and tried to attack unarmed police.

"Armed protesters should immediately stop violent attacks against the unarmed authorities," he said.

He said the prime minister and his government have remained fully functioning although the situation has to be reassessed on a daily basis.

The Tuesday's Cabinet meeting is expected to proceed but the venue has yet to be picked, he said.

The governmentsponsored meritmaking ceremony is on track for Tuesday although it is uncertain whether Prime Minister Somchai will leave Chiang Mai to personally chair the event, he said.

Somchai remains uncertain whether he can attend ceremonies relating to His Majesty's birthday, he added.

He insisted that the government refused to step down either by resigning or by House dissolution because this would tantamount to allowing the victory to the PAD.

Meanwhile, The Telegraph newspaper website, www.telegraph.co.uk, has named Thailand as one of the world's most generous countries, alongside Iraq, Afghanistan, Chechnya, South Africa, Jamaica, Sudan, Colombia, Haiti, Eritrea, Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Pakistan, Burundi, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, India, Mexico, Isarel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and Lebanon.

Wrote Francisca Kellett who compiled the list:

"Major political demonstrations and a temporary state of emergency have affected both of Bangkok's airports. The area around Government House and nearby Ratchadamnoen "Nok" Road, including the area around Metropolitan Police headquarters and Parliament should be avoided. Fighting also broke out last month on the Cambodian border at Preah Vihear and tensions remain high. Civil unrest and frequent attacks continue in the southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla - the Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to these areas."

ASEAN Head Says Time Running Out For Thailand To Host Summit

MORNING STAR
11-30-08

BANGKOK (AFP)--The head of the Southeast Asian bloc ASEAN said Sunday that time is "running short" for crisis-hit Thailand as it prepares to hold a major summit, adding that a delay would enable better preparations.

Surin Pitsuwan, secretary general of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, issued the statement during a visit to Thailand as the country grapples with a blockade of its airports by anti-government protesters.

"As time is running short, a delay would enable the secretariat to prepare better for the summit" scheduled for Dec. 15-18 in the northern city of Chiang Mai, Surin said in a statement.

The statement said Surin, a former Thai foreign minister, had "reassured" Thai authorities "that a postponement will not negatively affect ASEAN work plans too much."

But it added that he understood the "hesitation" of Thailand, which currently holds the rotating chair of ASEAN, to push back the meeting of leaders of the 10-member grouping.

ASEAN leaders are set to be joined at the summit by heads of government from East Asia as well as the heads of organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund and World Trade Organization.

"I certainly empathize with the Thai leaders and am grateful for their consideration of the matter. But I assure them that we can rearrange our work plans if Thailand... decides to postpone it for a few weeks," he said.

Thailand is in the grip of political chaos, as protesters trying to topple the government on Tuesday seized the nation's main Suvarnabhumi airport and forced its closure. They have also taken over a domestic airport.

Thailand's foreign minister Sompong Amornviwat said earlier Sunday that the kingdom may have to postpone the regional summit until March, adding that the cabinet would make its final decision on Tuesday.

"This is just my personal comment, but Thailand may have to postpone, but the postponement would not be long - it may be postponed to early March," Sompong said on Thai state-run NBT television station.

"But it depends on the cabinet's decision, because the postponement would not only affect Thailand financially, but more importantly it will affect the country's image."

Philippine President Gloria Arroyo's spokesman meanwhile said that some Southeast Asian governments have asked for the summit to be postponed.

"There are already requests from some countries to reset the ASEAN summit because of this problem," Arroyo's spokesman Jesus Dureza told reporters, quoting the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok.

"Everybody is also just waiting and hoping that the stand off could be resolved as soon as possible, as peaceful as possible," he said.

He didn't say whether the Philippines has asked for a postponement but said that decision was to be left to the foreign department and Arroyo's security officials.

ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

In 2006, the Philippines rescheduled a December summit for the following month after two powerful storms threatened to batter its central region, although some sources said it was linked to security threats.

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Thailand urged to assist Britons

Pro-government protesters gathered in Bangkok to support the prime minister

" I've seen some very sensational headlines, mostly on the internet, about fears for Britons trapped in Thailand... it's perfectly safe "

BBC News
Sunday, 30 November 2008

Thailand has been "strongly urged" by the UK government to help the thousands of Britons trapped in the country by the on-going anti-government protests.

Foreign Office minister Bill Rammell said he asked officials to let charter flights land at military airports to help tourists struggling to get home.

But he said the UK would not follow the lead of Spain and Australia and send planes to evacuate its citizens.

Bangkok's two main airports are still occupied by protesters and remain shut.

Mr Rammell told the BBC he had urged the Thai ambassador to take action to help stranded Britons reach airports that are still operating safely.

But he said while using government-chartered flights to bring people home may help the situation, it was not a solution.

"The key issue is the fact the two airports in Bangkok are closed and therefore you've effectively got planes stacking up and not being able to get slots," he said.

Spain's government is sending three planes to evacuate its citizens and Australian airline Qantas is putting on a special flight from the resort island of Phuket, ABC news reported.

Stranded businessman Mick Granger, from Essex, told the BBC Britons were in "no danger".

He said: "I've seen some very sensational headlines, mostly on the internet, about fears for Britons trapped in Thailand... it's perfectly safe."

Mr Granger, who was on a business trip, says he plans to get a train out to the Lao border on Tuesday.

'Retaliation'

Meanwhile, tensions in Bangkok have risen, with fears of clashes between pro- and anti-government groups after a grenade attack on Saturday night.

Around 50 people were injured - three seriously - in the late-night attack on protesters occupying a government compound.

It is widely thought to be retaliation for the airport occupation, said the BBC's Jonathan Head in Bangkok.

Police have issued fresh orders for protesters to leave the domestic airport Don Mueang, but say they will not use force.

The closures have hit Thailand's tourist industry hard, with the loss of millions of pounds of revenue.

It is thought some 100,000 passengers remain stranded in the Thai capital.

Thailand in civil chaos, protestors paralyse governance and tourism

NEWKERALA.COM

Bangkok, Nov 30: Civil chaos continued in Thailand today with law enforcement agencies unable to control protests that have shut down a key Asian air transport hub and driven the seat of government out of the national capital.

Violent clashes between anti- and pro-government groups continued with grenade attacks on anti-government protestors injuring over 40 people early today.

An anti-government TV station located in a popular foreign tourist spot came under renewed attack early today with grenades being fired and a prolonged exchange of gunfire reported.

Leaders of the anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) insisted they would not end their occupation of Thailand's main international airport and the capital's domestic airport until Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat resigns.

The Prime Minister has not been able to enter the capital following his return from the APEC Summit in Peru and has temporarily shifted the seat of government to the northern city of Chiang Mai.

PAD cadres have defied a court order and the declaration of a state of emergency at the two Bangkok airports and beaten back police attempts to evict them.

More than 100,000 foreigners have been stranded in Bangkok by the PAD's forcible occupation of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi international airport and Don Muenag domestic airport a few days ago.

Some 700 international flights have had to be cancelled and the stranded passengers were being flown out of a military airbase 200 km southeast of Bangkok. Major international carriers have set up check-in counters at a number of Bangkok hotels.

Passengers were being driven to the Uta Pao air base near the coastal resort of Pattaya and there were reports of two km-long traffic hold-ups on the highway leading to the military air base.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry estimates it will have to spend about two billion Baht (35 Baht= one US dollar) to put up the stranded passengers in city hotels till they could fly out of the country.

According to a top government minister, the continued closure of the airports will lead to a sharp fall in tourist arrivals in Thailand this year and next and up to a million local jobs could be lost.

Vietnam, Cambodia sign agreement on culture

30/11/2008

VietNamNet Bridge - Vietnam and Cambodia will step up high-ranking delegation exchanges and organise cultural days in both countries.

This was in a cultural and fine arts cooperation plan for the 2009-2011 period signed in Phnom Penh on Nov. 29.

The plan was signed by Minister of Culture and Fine Arts of Cambodia Him Chhem and Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam Tran Chien Thang on the occasion of the Vietnam culture week being held in Cambodia .

Under the plan, Vietnam will also help train Cambodian students at those schools under the management of Vietnam ’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

(Source: VNA)

Philippines grants duty-free treatment to more Cambodia, Myanmar goods

bworldonline.com
Monday, December 1, 2008 MANILA, PHILIPPINES

PRESIDENT Gloria M. Arroyo has granted duty-free privileges to more imports from Cambodia and Myanmar, in line with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Integration System of Preferences (AISP), which seeks to narrow the gap between old and new members of the bloc.

The directive is contained in Executive Order no. 768, signed by the President last November 7.

Under the order, imports from Myanmar that will enjoy a zero tariff are basketballs, wickerwork, "articles made directly to shape from plaiting materials," and articles made of loofah or vegetable materials.

Products from Cambodia that will be duty-free are clothing, specifically women’s or girls’ suits, ensemble jackets, blazers, dresses, skirts, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts; men’s or boys’ shirts, both knitted or crocheted; as well as products made of textiles other than ramie, linen or silk.

The National Economic and Development Authority Board approved the removal of the tariffs of the said items last August 5, the order said.

A preference is a unilateral offer made by old ASEAN members — or the so-called "preference-giving" countries the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand — to new ASEAN members or the "preference-receiving" countries Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.

This is meant to narrow the development gap among these countries and to facilitate the integration of new ASEAN members.

ASEAN leaders decided during the 4th ASEAN Informal Summit in Singapore in 2000 to draw up mechanisms that would promote the development of the bloc’s new members. ASEAN members agreed to implement AISP in 2001.

Under the AISP, tariffs would be reduced to zero by 2010 for the original ASEAN members, while the four new members will have until 2018 to do so.

In 2005, Mrs. Arroyo scrapped the tariffs on various imports from Cambodia, People’s Democratic Republic of Lao, Vietnam and Myanmar. These items include plants and plant parts used in perfumery, pharmacy, and for insecticidal or fungicidal purposes; various vegetable products; as well as various wood products.

— A. D. B. Romero

Chinese State Councilor Meng Jianzhu visits Cambodia

Cambodian deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Kheng (front, L) and Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Meng Jianzhu (front, R), pose for a group photo in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Nov. 30, 2008. Sar Kheng and Meng Jianzhu held talks here on Sunday. Meng, who was invited by Cambodian deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Kheng, arrived in Cambodia on Friday for an official visit. (Xinhua/Xia Lin)

http://www.chinaview.cn/

2008-11-30

PHNOM PENH, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Meng Jianzhu met here on Sunday respectively with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister as well as Minister of Interior Sar Kheng on bilateral ties and cooperation.

The Cambodian-Chinese relations have a long history, and enjoyed overall and deep development in recent years and now stay in its best period, said Hun Sen.

The fast economic development of China is an encouragement not only for the Chinese people, but for the peoples in the regional countries, he said.

Cambodia appreciated the long-term support and help that China has given for the economic and social development of Cambodia and the kingdom is willing to join hands with China to push forward the friendly and cooperative bilateral ties in all sectors for new development, the premier added.

Meng, who is also Chinese Minister of Public Security, said that the bilateral relations have enjoyed overall and deep development since the two countries established diplomatic ties 50years ago.

Both sides have enhanced political trust, the economic and trade cooperation have created much fruits, the exchange has become ever more active in all fields and the friendly ties have brought concrete benefits to both peoples, he said.

China appreciated Cambodia's adherence to the "One-China policy", firm stance against Taiwan independence and strong support for the peaceful unification of China, he said.

Meanwhile, the justice cooperation between the two countries has made much achievement and enriched the contents of the bilateral overall cooperative partnership, he said.

The justice cooperation between China and Cambodia is expected to further develop in width and depth, thus bringing more benefits to both peoples, he added.

Cambodian deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Kheng (4th, L) and Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security, Meng Jianzhu (6th, L), witness both sides' deputies signing the memorandum of cooperation between the Chinese Ministry of Public Security and Cambodian Interior Ministry in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Nov. 30, 2008. Sar Kheng and Meng Jianzhu held talks here on Sunday. Meng, who was invited by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Kheng, arrived in Cambodia on Friday for an official visit. (Xinhua/Xia Lin)

During the meeting with Sar Kheng, Meng said that the traditional friendly ties between China and Cambodia achieved consistent development and the cooperative range has kept on widening.

There were also new development of the cooperation between the justice departments of both countries, and a convenient and highly effective model has been set to fight against the crimes related with the two sides, he said.

China expected to further strengthen its cooperation with Cambodia in the fields of countering drug smuggling, anti-terrorism, information exchange, jointly cracking cases, finding and detaining refugees and conducting professional training, he said.

So that we can maintain the social order and normal visits of both peoples, co-establish a safe and stable environment for the region and contribute to the healthy and stable development of the overall cooperative partnership between China and Cambodia, he added.

Sar Kheng highly appreciated the Cambodian-Chinese friendship and the positive development of the justice cooperation between the two sides.

Cambodia is willing to join hands with China in fighting against drug-related crimes, illegal immigration, child sale and other trans-national crimes, he said, adding that his country would like to push the bilateral justice cooperation up to a new level.

After the meeting, the deputies from both sides signed the memorandum of cooperation between Chinese Ministry of Public Security and Cambodian Interior Ministry and the agreement for China to donate police equipment and materials for Cambodia.

Meng and the 19-member delegation arrived in the kingdom on Friday for an official visit at the invitation of Sar Kheng. He will leave for Vietnam on Monday for the second and final leg of his regional tour.

Editor: Yan

51 protesters wounded in Bangkok explosions

Anti-government demonstrators carry a wounded woman to safety near the Government House in Bangkok November 30, 2008. A grenade blast wounded 34 anti-government protesters at Government House in Bangkok early on Sunday, a spokesman for an anti-government satellite television channel said.REUTERS/Stringer (THAILAND)

Paramedics load an injured anti-government demonstrator into an ambulance near the Government House in Bangkok on November 30, 2008. A grenade blast wounded 34 anti-government protesters at Government House in Bangkok early on Sunday, a spokesman for an anti-government satellite television channel said.REUTERS/Stringer (THAILAND)

An injured anti-government protester is carried on a stretcher after an explosion during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic airports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)

An injured anti-government protester, left, waits for a first aid treatment in a medic tent after an explosion during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic airports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

A female anti-government protester, right, walks with her injured relative to a waiting ambulance after an explosion during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic airports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

Injured anti-government protesters are transported on a pick up truck to hospital after an explosion during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic airports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

An injured anti-government protester is taken from the scene in a wheel chair after an explosion during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic airports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)

An injured anti-government protester is carried on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance after the bomb blast during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic airports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

Security guards for anti-government protesters examine the site of a bomb blast during a protest at government house Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. An emergency official says an explosion inside the Thai prime minister's besieged office compound has wounded 33 people. The protesters, who have occupied government house, the prime minister's compound, since August, upped the stakes this week by overrunning Bangkok's international and domestic aiports and bringing them to a halt in their campaign to oust the government.(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

Police officers examine the scene of a small explosion next to a barricade set up by anti-government protesters outside Bangkok's Don Muang airport November 30, 2008. Foreign governments are increasingly concerned at the closure of Suvarnabhumi airport since Tuesday by political protesters as part of their campaign to topple the government of Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat. The U.S. embassy in Bangkok said it had asked the Thai foreign ministry to provide "appropriate compensation" to U.S. citizens stranded by the closure of Suvarnabhumi and the older Don Muang airport, a big domestic hub.REUTERS/Darren Whiteside (THAILAND)

An anti-government potestor stands near a barricade outside Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok. Thai police have surrounded and cordoned off Bangkok's main airport after scuffles with protesters, raising fears that days of crippling demonstrations could end violently.(AFP/Saeed Khan)

Protesters, some armed with sticks, ride on a pickup truck as they head to their checkpoints at the besieged Suvarnabhumi international airport in Bangkok. A grenade attack on protesters occupying the Thai premier's office wounded at least 46 people Sunday, further raising tensions as police tried to end an opposition blockade of Bangkok's airports.(AFP/Hoang Dinh Nam)

Protesters ride on a pickup truck as they head to their checkpoints at the besieged Suvarnabhumi international airport in Bangkok. A grenade attack on protesters occupying the Thai premier's office wounded at least 46 people Sunday, further raising tensions as police tried to end an opposition blockade of Bangkok's airports.(AFP/Hoang Dinh Nam)

Asean summit pushed back?

Sun, Nov 30, 2008
AFP

BANGKOK - THAILAND'S foreign minister said on Sunday the kingdom may have to postpone a regional summit until March as anti-government protesters continue their occupation of Bangkok's two airports.

Mr Sompong Amornviwat said that the Thai cabinet would make its final decision on Tuesday over whether to go ahead with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) meeting scheduled for December 15-18.

'This is just my personal comment, but Thailand may have to postpone, but the postponement would not be long - it may be postponed to early March,' Mr Sompong said on Thai state-run NBT television station.

'But it depends on the cabinet's decision, because the postponement would not only affect Thailand financially, but more importantly it will affect the country's image.'

Thailand, the current chair of Asean, is in the grip of political chaos, as protesters trying to topple the government on Tuesday seized the nation's main Suvarnabhumi airport and forced its closure.

Supporters of the so-called People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) repeated that feat at the smaller Don Mueang airport a day later, and have also been occupying premier Somchai Wongsawat's cabinet offices since August.

The worsening political situation in the kingdom has prompted Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam to suggest postponing the Asean summit, and the bloc's secretary general travelled overland to Thailand on Friday to assess the situation.

Thailand announced in late October that the Asean summit would be moved from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, a government stronghold where Somchai is currently running the country from as the protests drag on.

Authorities said it was because of northern Thailand's cooler climate, but the anti-government protests are believed to be a key factor.

In December 2006, the Philippines postponed that year's Asean summit on the island of Cebu until the following month due to worries about an incoming storm and concerns over a possible terror attack.

Sopagna Eap; One-on-One

Provided
Sopagna Eap competes in the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Boston in April.

Charleston Post Courier
Sunday, November 30, 2008

Great performance at New York. Was it a smooth, comfortable race for you?

"I switched from feeling good to not-so-good, but I think I'm starting to get stronger with the marathon because I expected to the hit the wall at (mile) 20 or 21 and it never happened. I was grateful for that because the wall is always painful."

You grew up in San Francisco where running conditions are better. What was it like training in the heat and humidity of the Lowcountry?

"When I first moved here, I couldn't breathe. I'd never been exposed to heat and humidity. I didn't think I was going to make it. I was struggling and all the runs I did were terrible. I'd do intervals (speed workouts) and they (laps/intervals) were much slower than usual ... I didn't know where all the water fountains were, so I eventually went out and bought a (hydration) belt. Then it got cooler and I felt better."

You were born in a refugee camp in Thailand near the border of Cambodia. Tell me about that experience.

"I was 8-months-old at the time (when they left) and don't remember anything, but my parents lived through the Kmer Rouge, then the Vietnamese invaded Cambodia and they lived through that. When the Vietnamese left, the country had to rebuild itself ... They (her parents) crossed the border on bicycles from Cambodia to Vietnam and my dad speaks multiple languages, which helped. The refugee camps were filled with Cambodians and (my parents) pretended to be Vietnamese. Then through the refugee system, we made it out ... I'm glad I don't have any memories of the experience."

How did you get into running?

"I realized pretty early that I could run well. I was pretty active. I played different sports, but running was a better fit for my body type."

Which sports did you play?

(Laughs) "I played basketball and volleyball — which is fine when you're 13. My strength in those sports was that I had a lot of endurance."

Tell me about running at the University of California-Davis.

"I got a partial scholarship. At the time, it was a (Division II) school and wasn't allowed to give full scholarships ... I ran the 3K and 5K. I also ran cross-country, but I didn't do as well at that. I think it's due to the fact that I have a smooth turnover and when it's interrupted, I don't run as well. I'm not a strength runner."

You went to the University of Oregon for your masters and PhD. Is Eugene running heaven?

"It's pretty much running heaven ... I wasn't even planning on running competitively post-collegiately. I moved to Oregon and didn't think it would effect me the way it did. But everyone is so enthusiastic about running and there are plenty of places to run."

How did you get into marathoning?

"I did it because my husband (Todd Braje) — my boyfriend at the time — was an ultra-marathoner and convinced me to run it (2005 Green Bay Marathon). He ended up getting injured and I did it myself. I figured if I wanted to make the 2008 (Olympic Marathon) Trials that I might as well ... I ran a 2:52 (third place overall female), but I hit the wall at mile 15."

You already had your sights set on the 2008 Olympic Trials?

"I don't remember exactly how I knew about the trials because at the time I didn't know much about running (opportunities)."

What brought you to Charleston?

"I got my (PhD) degree in clinical psychology but we have a year to do a clinical internship. My husband (also an academic) was applying for jobs too, so we knew there was a good possibility that we wouldn't be able to coordinate locations ... I came out here and interviewed and really liked the program. He ended up getting a job in northern California. My internship ends at the end of July."

Are there any races that you are looking at doing here?

"Definitely the Cooper River (Bridge) Run. I wanted to do the Turkey Day Run, but it's been so hard balancing everything and I need a little break to re-charge. I didn't even really want to do New York, but it ended up helping me stay sane and center me."

What do you think of the running scene here?

"I was really surprised when I first came here. I didn't think there would be much of a running scene. I've met a lot of runners and active people ... Still in different parts of Charleston, I feel abnormal running. I've been yelled at running on a path of a (Charleston Municipal) golf course. This guy was really upset that I had the nerve to be on the path, but there were no sidewalks — so what could you do?"

Where are your favorite places to run here?

"I like the West Ashley Greenway. I definitely wish all the mile markers were up, but that's OK. For short runs, I like the Battery. It's really nice out there."

Kampuchea (Cambodian) Restaurant

Ox tail stew is a balance of cooked and fresh food. (Nadia Ghattas/The Epoch Times)

By Nadia Ghattas
Epoch Times Staff

In the Lower East Side of Manhattan there lies a hidden gem that is slowly but surely etching its mark into the culinary world.

Ratha Chau, the owner and chef of Kampuchea (the old name for Cambodia) told me that it has no relationship to the communist organization that was formed in 1970.

Chau initially immigrated to America to study psychology but found himself being drawn to food. He wanted to create something unique and enjoyable for New Yorkers as a tribute to the street food of his native country.

The menu is based on traditional flavors and classic Cambodian cooking techniques, and then takes it a step further with respect to culture and flavors. Chau explained that everything must be fresh because Kampuchea’s food is a combination of cooked and raw ingredients. The menu is not fusion; it is novella. This reflects what Chau experienced and tasted growing up in Cambodia.

Menu items reflect the tastes of southern Cambodia combined with other regional influences.

Although Kampuchea is small and cozy, the atmosphere is lively and upbeat. It is rustic yet modern with Asian oak communal tables, stools-only seating, tin ceilings, and steel fans—all of which serve to create a comfortable atmosphere for your dining experience.

Cambodia is one of the few countries in South East Asia that is underpopulated. It is a peninsula surrounded by Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the South China Sea. About half of the country is a tropical forest. The country overall is rich with produce and seafood which is portrayed in the country’s cuisine.

Chef Chau (ex Blue Water Grill, Asia de Cuba, and Fleur de Sel) decided to take the plunge to open this Cambodian restaurant without realizing that he would create an incredible interest for diverse diners, who would travel distances to experience Kampuchea. The menu is original and creative. It was originally developed by Chef Chau and Scott Burnett, Chau’s partner and executive chef. The menu is comprised of five sections—from small Cambodian plates, crepes, Num Pang (Cambodian sandwiches), grilled items, and Katieve or noodle dishes. This diverse, eclectic menu is a delight to the epicure, as it awakens every taste bud of the palate.

The grilled sweet corn is a recommended starter—grilled corn smothered with chili mayo and coconut flakes. It’s very light. It could have a South America touch, but the bottom line is that it’s delicious.

The Lyche martini is another excellent way to start out. It is very subtle, and not too sweet or boozy, making it a nice compliment to the flavorful and spicy food.

DELICIOUS NAM PANG: Three in one (Nadia Ghattas/The Epoch Times)

My friend and I decided to share some of the signature dishes, including the Mussels, Tamarind Baby Back Ribs, and the Num Pan sandwich tastings. The Oxtail Soup is something that should not be overlooked on a cold day either. All were rich with very distinct and wonderful flavors. The mussels were cooked to perfection and combined with tomatillos, hot peppers, and raw vegetables with cilantro—providing a contrast of sour and spicy. The dish also comes with a semi-thick gravy to dip your bread in. The baby back ribs were comprised of an outstanding combination of special ingredients—Doruc pig, known as red pig, is poached for four hours in apple cider vinegar and smothered with tamarind sauce complemented with pickled vegetables with different contrasting flavors—sour, salty and hot.

New Yorkers are so lucky to have the world cook for them in their backyards. All of the proteins are made from naturally raised animals. Kampuchea does not serve desserts, but with such a wonderful variety of eclectic foods who needs dessert?

The oxtail stew with tamarind, green papaya, and raw vegetables was my friend’s favorite. The sandwiches were also up there as they made for a very nice close to the dinner, leaving one feeling warm, happy, and healthy. Not too heavy with a pleasant aftertaste reminding you that you just had a stellar meal.

The Verdict: I quote my friend who said, “A brilliant little find that should be kept a secret. I would come here alone or with friends again and again.”

Price per plate ranges from $9.00 to $ 17.00

Kampuchea Restaurant 78 Rivington Street (corner Allen Street), New York, NY 10002, (212) 529-3901 Lunch: Friday through Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.Dinner: Tuesday through Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday and Sunday 5:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Sunday 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Thai Business Leaders Call on Premier to Step Down

By Suttinee Yuvejwattana and Daniel Ten Kate

Nov. 30 (Bloomberg) -- Thailand’s business leaders said Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat should step down to end a siege at the nation’s main international airport, which has paralyzed travel and threatens a million jobs in the tourism industry.

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport remained shut for a sixth day as negotiations failed to clear thousands of protesters who are demanding Somchai’s resignation. Violence escalated in the past 24 hours, as demonstrators attacked police with steel bars near the airport and a blast at a government compound in the capital wounded 34 people.

“We’ve asked the government to resign or dissolve the parliament because we think this is the best way out,” Pramon Sutivong, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said today.

The call from the Chamber of Commerce increases the pressure on Somchai, who has been holed up in the northern city of Chiang Mai because of concern that growing protests in the capital may lead to a coup. A pro-government group plans to hold a rally in Bangkok today, increasing the likelihood of a bloody clash that may force the army to intervene.

“This situation can’t go on for long” Pramon said. “It will soon lead to violence, forcing the military to come out to stage a coup again. We all want to avoid that.”

An emergency order imposed on Bangkok’s airports and Government House has empowered police to clear the areas, though Somchai has said the government won’t use violence against the protesters. About 750 flights a day can’t get in or out of Suvarnabhumi, Asia’s fourth-busiest airport with as many as 100,000 passengers a day, the airport operator’s data shows.

Possible Asean Postponement

Foreign Minister Sompong Amornvivat said today that Thailand may have to postpone a summit of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations scheduled for next month, Agence France- Presse reported, citing Sompong speaking on state-run NBT television station.

Sompong said it was his “personal comment” that the summit may have to be put off until March, even though it would affect the country financially and affect its image, AFP reported.

Somchai said Nov. 28 he intends to hold the meetings as scheduled Dec. 15-18. The government already moved the venue to Chiang Mai from Bangkok because of the protests there. Laos and Cambodia, both members of Asean, have said Thailand should reschedule the summit.

Negotiations Failed

Negotiations to clear demonstrators failed yesterday, and violence broke out when 500 protesters armed with steel bars stormed a 150-strong police checkpoint. Police officers jumped into vans and sped away after demonstrators attacked the vehicles and threw firecrackers.

Somchai said yesterday he was willing to negotiate with protesters, if they lifted demands for his resignation and the dissolution of the government. Police efforts last month to clear demonstrators killed one person and injured hundreds.

Early today, an explosion wounded 48 people at the compound, said Winner Dachpian, a spokesman for the protesters. Nine people were sent to hospital, with three in critical condition, he said. A bomb was thrown into the site, the TNN television news network reported. Similar blasts have occurred in recent weeks.

Thai Army Chief Anupong Paojinda last week called for early elections to end six months of deadly protests.

Fresh Elections

The People’s Alliance for Democracy, composed mostly of the Bangkok middle class, royalists and civil servants, accuses Somchai of being the proxy of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup by Anupong and other generals. The group has rejected calls for fresh elections and said it wouldn’t leave the airport until the government steps down.

“If you can’t manage the country you have to resign,” Phongsak Assakul, vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said by phone during a 14-hour bus ride to Bangkok from Hat Yai in southern Thailand. “Let the elected parliamentarians form a new government. If that government can’t govern, then let’s go have another election.”

An election may return the ruling party to power. Parties linked to Thaksin have won four elections since 2001 on strong rural support for its platform of cheap health care and village loans. The protesters want a new political system that prevents the return of Thaksin’s allies by diluting rural votes.

“One possible way out is to find a neutral person who’s universally acceptable to be the new prime minister,” said Ajva Taulananda, the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s honorary chairman and vice chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group. “This way, we will see a break from the political squabbling,” he said in a phone interview.

Travelers Stranded

Suvarnabhumi’s closure has stranded thousands of travelers in the Thai capital. Repatriating them, and returning the 50,000 Thais stranded overseas, may cost 1 billion baht ($28 million) and take as long as a month, Deputy Prime Minister Olarn Chaiprawat said, Agence France-Presse reported yesterday.

“People are losing trust in the Thai people,” the Chamber of Commerce’s Phongsak said. “It really damages the tourist industry, not only hotels and airlines, but also restaurants, guided tours, lots of people.”

Thailand is allowing airlines to use a naval base in the east of the country to repatriate stranded travelers.

Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. warned of “chaotic” conditions and long lines at the military airfield.
The carrier, Hong Kong’s biggest, is one of about a dozen airlines using U-Tapao Airport, east of Bangkok near Pattaya. Japan Airlines Corp. and Singapore Airlines Ltd. were also using the facility, more than two hours away from Bangkok.

Airport Congestion

“There has been congestion because this airport wasn’t built to serve such a huge number of passengers,” Chaisak Ungsuwan, director general of the Air Transportation Department, said today. The airfield handled more than 100 flights yesterday, he said. Suvarnabhumi handles 600 daily flights.

The international airport in Bangkok will remain closed until Dec. 1, Airports of Thailand Pcl said yesterday.

Finance Minister Suchart Thadathamrongvej said the protests and airport closures may cause damage amounting to about 100 billion baht this quarter.

“The prolonged political gridlock will drag on our economy and create unemployment,” said Pramon, the Chamber of Commerce chairman. “We just hope that we can grow 3 percent next year, even though the hope is quite dim now.”