Monday 23 August 2010

Thailand Writes ASEAN to Reject International Interference in Border Dispute


23 August 2010
Thai-ASEAN News Network

The Foreign Ministry has submitted a letter to Vietnam, the current chairman of ASEAN, to protest against the Cambodian government's attempts to bring a third party into the border dispute surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple.

The Thai government has lodged a letter of protest with Vietnam, the chairman of ASEAN, against the Cambodian government's attempt to draw international interference in the border dispute surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple.

Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya submitted the letter to the Vietnamese Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Khiem, asking the current ASEAN chairman to pass along the explanation about the border dispute to other ASEAN foreign ministers.

The Foreign Minister of Thailand has expressed its gratitude to ASEAN for its concern regarding the dispute and insisted that it will remain patient in solving the problem.

However, Bangkok has expressed its desire for bilateral talks with Cambodia, without any intervention by a third party.

The letter sent to Vietnam also repudiates accusations Cambodia has made about Thailand.

The Thai government also pointed out that despite the ongoing diplomatic row, daily interaction and the cooperation between the people of both countries remain normal along the border.

Thailand has also informed ASEAN members that the Cabinet has submitted a proposal by the Joint Border Committee to the Parliament for its consideration in accordance with the Kingdom's charter, which guarantees freedom of expression. Therefore, this should not been seen as a delay tactic.

Bangkok has also expressed confidence that Thailand and Cambodia can remain close friends and will overcome the border dispute for the benefit of the people in both countries.

Thailand is also seeking to resume bilateral negotiation with the Cambodian government as other ASEAN members had recommended two years ago.

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