Thursday, 2 December 2010

Cambodia delays border opening

via CAAI

PHNOM PENH - CAMBODIA has postponed opening a border gate with Thailand at the disputed site of an ancient temple, an official said on Wednesday, after conflicting reports over troop withdrawal from the area.

'We have delayed it indefinitely,' said Hang Soth, director general of the government-run agency managing the Preah Vihear temple.

Cambodia earlier this week said redeployment of troops by both countries away from the border had eased the way for the gate to be opened for the first time in over two years on Sunday.

But the Thai prime minister has since denied any such withdrawal and renewed calls for all Cambodians to leave the disputed area before the army would pull back.

'I said clearly that there would be no military withdrawal if there is still intrusion,' Abhisit Vejjajiva told reporters when questioned on the issue.

The gate, which gives access to the 11th century site to visitors from Thailand, has been closed since June 2008 after Thai protesters rallied near the ruins. -- AFP

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