[Thai] PM : no date for meeting with Cambodia’s PM during ASEAN summit

1/5/2011
Source: http://media.thaigov.go.th/pageconfig/viewcontent/viewcontent1e.asp?pageid=472&directory=1944&contents=57154

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s position to protect national interests and public safety in resolving Thai-Cambodian border issues.

On 28 April 2011, at 16.15 hrs. at the Parliament Building, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva discussed the progress of the negotiations with Cambodia on the clashes on Thailand-Cambodia border. The Prime Minister said that we enter the process of observing the situation. Thailand will also have to perform its duties, preventing problems from arising and avoiding disadvantages. On the fact that Cambodia has strengthened its armed forces along the border, the Prime Minister said that Thailand needs to monitor the situation closely. However, there have been some discussions which are a positive sign, although Thailand still has to be watchful and monitor the situation.

On Cambodian Prime Minister’s comment that he was ready to negotiate on the bilateral basis and that a third party was needed in resolving Phra Viharn temple issue, the Prime Minister said that this is what Cambodia has already prepared to do, but it is possible to negotiate and settle disputes. However, if there is an attack from Cambodia, Thailand will follow standard responses, which all parties have recognized, as it has been doing. On Cambodia’s preparation regarding the world heritage issue, the Prime Minister already discussed with Mr. Suwit Khunkitti, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, to take care of it.

Besides, the Prime Minister said that there has been no schedule to meet with Cambodian Prime Minister during the ASEAN summit in early May. He said that it depends on the situation. The Prime Minister reiterated that positions on this issue are not needed to be announced all the time as we should give relevant people the opportunity to work. Nevertheless, the Prime Minister ensured that the government will protect national interests, giving top priority to sovereignty and security of people in the area.

On 29 April 2011, the Prime Minister gave an additional interview to the press regarding Cambodia’s request with the International Court of Justice to reinterpret the 1962 ruling, saying that Thailand has prepared a team to respond to the matter and fight any case.

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Government Spokesman Bureau

Foreign Relations Division

Posted in: ASEAN