Bangkok Post
The government will adhere to peaceful means in solving the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia and the conflict will not be allowed to lead to political changes in the country as some people may want to see, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said this after a meeting of the National Security Council on Thursday.
Mr Abhisit called for the people to stay united and not to believe in rumours.
"Some people want to see changes in the country. Regardless of whether or not there would be a change, it must happen under the law. Now there are no reasons for the the conflict to cause any political changes in the country," said the prime minister.
Mr Abhisit said the government would adhere to the principle that any moves to solve the conflict must not lead to violent incidents between peoples of the two countries. The government would be careful to make sure that every measure to be taken must not affect the livelihood of the people.
He called for the people not to panic on hearing unfounded rumours which could cause misunderstanding. He also wanted the people to support measures to be taken by the government, and to stay united and patient.
Mr Abhisit went on that the government had not yet despatched more troops to the border, where the situation was still normal. The conflict had not caused economic impacts, as cross-border trade was going on as usual, he added.
Regarding possible measures to be taken, the prime minister said the Foreign Ministry was looking into the possibility of reviewing various cooperation projects with Cambodia.
He said he government would not be engaged in any game with Cambodia but would perform its duty to protect the interests of the country, not of individuals.
It was not necessary for the government to resort to taking tough measures, but would adhere to international practice.
"We will adhere to international practice. Shouting loudly does not mean being strong. Sometimes, quiet dealings with the conflict would be more effective. And the conflict will not be brought for talks in the Asean level," Mr Abhisit said.
On Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen's interview that he would be ready to send former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to Thailand but not as a prisoner, Mr Abhisit said the government was ready to accept Thaksin, no matter in what status.
"In fact, our extradition request was made according to international practice, Hun Sen could hand over Thaksin in any status and we would treat him according to the law," the prime minister said.
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