Televised Preah Vihear Debate Lauded

10 August 2010

Thai-Asia network

Locals at a Thai-Cambodian border district welcome the government's stance to seek dialogue with opponents of its policy on the Preah Vihear dispute

People living in Phumsarol village near the Thai-Cambodian border exchanged their viewpoints on the nationally-televised debate between representatives of the government, including the prime minister, and the People's Alliance for Democracy on a proper policy on the Preah Vihear dispute.

They said all parties should settle their differences on the issue via dialogue while the recent debate could show the government's sincerity in clarifying related information.

Former president of Si Sa Ket chamber of commerce, Sriwan Kietsuranont, said he agreed to the proposed formation of an independent panel in charge of resolving the Preah Vihear conflict with all parties involved.

Sriwan remarked campaigns concerning the Preah Vihear issue must be carried out in a cautious and transparent manner.

Meanwhile, Army Region 2 Commander Lieutenant General Weewalit Jornsamrit said security operations in the areas around Preah Vihear Temple must follow orders from the government.

Weewalit commented the dispute is still possible to be settled through negotiations while the use of force should be the last resort.

The general also insisted the Thai-Cambodian border situation is still normal, but the army now is in full preparation for any incident and he has assigned the Suranaree Task Force to handle a rally planned by activist groups in the border area.

In a related development, troops from Suranaree Task Force's 16th Infantry and 13th Ranger regiments have set up two more military checkpoints in the north end of Phumsarol village in addition to those at Khao Phra Viharn National Park in Kantharalak district.