Thai-Cambodian border talks agree on full troop redeployment

HUA HIN, Aug 20 (TNA) -Thai Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag and his Cambodian counterpart Hor Namhong on Tuesday agreed to adopt a provisional arrangement over the disputed Preah Vihear temple pending the survey and demarcation of the area in question.

In a joint press conference after a full day of talks in this Thai resort town, Mr. Tej announced both parties have agreed on a full redeployment of troops in the area, among other measures.

Mr. Hor said Cambodia would pull out its troops from the temple area, but would maintain only some police there for security.

Both agreed to adopt a provisional arrangement pending the survey and demarcation work to be carried out by the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), which is expected to be convened in October.

Asked whether Phnom Penh would withdraw its written request for the United Nations Security Council to deal with the dispute, the Cambodian foreign minister said he personally wanted to do so soon, but that the matter is up to the Cambodian government's decision.

Likewise, the Thai foreign minister reaffirmed that the arrangement must comply with the Thai constitution.

It is expected that the next round of the Foreign Ministers' Meeting will take place after the Joint Boundary Commission is convened in October.

Asked when Cambodia would allow tourists to visit the Preah Vihear temple, the Cambodian foreign minister said Phnom Penh would consider it when troops of both sides are pulled out of the temple area.

Thai Foreign Minister Tej said he could not give details regarding the troop withdrawal because it is a duty of military officers of both countries to further negotiate the matter.