By Pavin Chachavalpongpun
The Nation
some Thai soldiers deployed along the border complained of Abhisit’s seemingly hopeless approach toward Cambodia, and that they decided to fire artillery into the Preah Vihear Temple to demonstrate their frustration as much as their bravery
For now, there will be no more armed clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border.
Asean, led by its current chair, Indonesia, can be proud of its achievement in bringing the grouping’s two stubborn members to the negotiating table. Asean’s mediation efforts are commendable. But they may be inadequate in the search for a long-lasting solution to this persistent thorn in Thai-Cambodian relations.
Already, Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has confirmed that the Thai Army will not withdraw any troops from the border, even though Indonesia is in the process of sending a team of observers to the disputed area. Abhisit’s firm position is likely to see a similar firm response from his Cambodian counterpart, Prime Minister Hun Sen.
That suggests the situation will remain fragile. It will also remain highly dangerous if Thailand continues to produce an incoherent policy vis-a-vis Cambodia.
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