November 6, 2009
By The Nation
Thailand and Cambodia have much to do to restore harmonious relations
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen is playing a hedging game against Thailand. By appointing fugitive ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra as his adviser - and economic adviser to his government - he has done a great disservice to his country and people. Indeed, he is looking down on the Cambodian people. He is making a big mistake because he has chosen sides and bet on his friend Thaksin against Cambodian interests. It is clear from his action that he thinks Thaksin will return to Thailand and become a future leader against all odds. If that is the case, he will reap the benefits resulting from his support.
Chavanont Intarakomalsut, a secretary to the Thai foreign minister, said yesterday that Thailand had decided to recall its ambassador and would review all ongoing bilateral agreements, and all those in progress as well. After some low-profile exchanges during the Asean Summit last week, the Thai government has hardened its response to Hun Sen's personal decision. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva kept his cool during the Summit, playing down Hun Sen's comments on Thaksin. He did well, and made the summit a successful event. At one point, he said better communication and information between the two countries on the status of Thaksin and his wrongdoings would improve the situation. Following the summit, the Thai media criticised Abhisit for not taking any tangible action against Hun Sen and Cambodia.
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