Tuesday, 29 July 2008

Army chief optimistic successful talks help ease border tension

BANGKOK, July 29 (TNA) – Thailand's Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda on Tuesday expressed optimism that the successful Thai and Cambodian foreign ministerial talks could help ease the border tension in the disputed area near the Preah Vihear temple.

Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong and his newly appointed Thai counterpart Tej Bunnag announced in a joint press conference after talks held in Cambodia's Siem Reap province on Monday that both countries would adjust their troop deployments stationed inside and around the temple complex.

Speaking before his departure for an inspection in the restive South, Gen. Anupong said an initial agreement made by foreign ministers of both countries for a redeployment of troops in the dispute area would serve as a channel to help reduce the border tension.

The military would wait for the government's instruction before making any redeployment, he said.

The army chief conceded he was worried about a possible resort to violent means by some groups of people against other groups with opposing views in different areas of the country.

He said the use of violence could not solve the conflicts. Instead, it would worsen the rifts. The problem could be solved if all conflicting parties talked to each other reasonably and respected their different views.

"The army is not in a position to get involved in solving the confrontation because no law warrants its action. Still, the military police stationed in every corner of the country can help local police deal with the situation if requested because they are well-trained for it," he said. (TNA)

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