Thai, Cambodian PMs agree to improve bilateral relations

NEW YORK
Sept 25, 2010

Despite a diplomatic standoff which resulted in part from Cambodia’s unilateral management plan for the environs of the ancient Preah Vihear temple that sits on contested land claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia, the prime ministers of the two countries have agreed to improve relations for the benefit of their peoples.

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen talked for half an hour on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly agreeing that warm relations between the two neighbouring countries are vital for the benefit of their peoples.

Although conflicts remain, bilateral trade has increased, Mr Abhisit told a TNA journalist.

Mr Abhisit quoted Mr Hun Sen as telling him that a warm welcome was seen at a recent Thai trade fair in Cambodia and that both countries should refrain from confrontations or violence.
Frequent visits at the ministerial level and more joint activities should be organised, Mr Hun Sen was quoted as saying.

UNESCO’s World Heritage Commission agreed in July to consider a plan for managing Preah Vihear temple proposed by the Khmer government, but deferred the action until it meets next year. Both countries claim land adjacent to the temple.

In 1962, the International Court of Justice ruled the 10th-century border temple belongs to Cambodia, rejecting Thai claims. UNESCO named Preah Vihear a World Heritage site in 2008, after Cambodia applied for the status.

Armed clashes resulting casualties on both sides have occurred occasionally in the area since then.

Mr Abhisit said the temple row was not raised during his meeting with Mr Hun Sen as the issue is now being dealt with by concerned agencies while rhe premier and his Khmer counterpart could discuss details in several other upcoming international forums.

“The atmosphere for resolving the problem should improve,” Mr Abhisit said. (MCOT online news)