Thai PM Comments on Hun Sen's Harsh Reaction on Preah Vihear Conflict

The Prime Minister says the harsh statement by Cambodia's Prime Minister is a normal reaction, while the deputy prime minister in charge of national security believes the news may have been distorted.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva deems the harsh statement by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen is a usual reaction. The PM's comment followed Hun Sen apparent threat that Thai intruders would be shot if they entered the disputed Thai-Cambodia common border area.
The PM further said that Thailand should not be concerned about this, as we have to reserve our country's rights as well. He insisted that Cambodia does not hold rights over Thailand, and the government will continue to proceed with peaceful means regarding this matter.

The PM said there is no need to send the deputy prime minister in charge of national security, Suthep Thaugsuban, to negotiate with Hun Sen. Abhisit added that he is confident that Hun Sen will attend the 15th ASEAN Summit in October.

Meanwhile, Suthep said he is not yet aware of the facts regarding the matter. However, he believes the news may have been distorted and that the Cambodian PM did not intend to make such a comment. Suthep added that the facts should first be confirmed by intelligence and the Foreign Minister before further assumptions are made. He added that the government's policy does not include violence, and it will not give up on protecting the nation's land.

Some have said that Hun Sen's remark may have been grounded by a close relationship with fugitive ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. In response, Suthep has stated that Hun Sen is a professional politician, so he would not link his personal issues to his political movements.

Source: Thai-Asean News Network