Thai, Cambodian forces build up along border: Cambodia

Cambodian Buddhist monks walk at Preah Vihear templePREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AFP) — Thailand and Cambodia have built up forces at more points along their common border, stepping up a week-long standoff over disputed territory, Cambodian officials said Wednesday.More than 500 Thai troops are facing off against at least 1,000 Cambodian soldiers over a tiny area of land near the ancient Preah Vihear

Cambodia warns Thai 'aggression' threatening region

Cambodia's prime minister has accused Thailand of unwarranted aggression by moving troops into disputed border territory, warning the action threatens peace in the region.Hun Sen made the statement in a letter to the United Nations cultural agency, UNESCO, after two days of diplomacy failed to resolve the week-long military stand-off centred on the ruins of the Preah Vihear temple.The tensions

Border dispute forces Thai businessmen to go home

BANGKOK, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's Thai business community is in process of returning to Thailand due to the uncertain situation over the continuing Preah Vihear temple dispute between the two countries, the state-run Thai News Agency reported on Wednesday. Sombat Chuengtrakul, chairman of the local entrepreneurs club in Thailand's Chanthaburi Province which is bordering with Cambodia,

Thailand reaffirms bilateral stance on border dispute with Cambodia

BANGKOK, July 23 (Xinhua) -- In response to Cambodia's diplomatic offensive concerning the current border spat, Thailand handed a letter to the 15-member United Nations Security Council reaffirming Thailand's intention to solve the dispute through bilateral talks, according to a report of the state-run Thai News Agency on Wednesday In the report, Don Pramudwinai, the Thai ambassador to the

UN Security Council to discuss Thai-Cambodia dispute: ambassador

BANGKOK (AFP) — The UN Security Counil is expected to discuss a tense military standoff between Cambodia and Thailand this week, Thailand's ambassador to the United Nations said Wednesday.Don Pramudwinai said the Security Council meeting on Thursday was set to discuss the week-long issue involving troops from both countries facing off near an ancient temple on their border."I have been informed

UN Security Council to discuss Thai-Cambodia dispute

PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AFP) — The UN Security Council is expected to discuss a tense military standoff between Cambodia and Thailand this week as more troops amassed along the border, officials said Wednesday.Thailand's ambassador to the UN, Don Pramudwinai, said the Security Council on Thursday would discuss the border dispute that has troops from both countries facing off near the 11th-century

Thai-Cambodian conflict enters 2nd week

Leaflets distributed in PPenh calling for the boycott of Thai goods and servicesBy KER MUNTHITPHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — Thailand accused Cambodia of eyeing even more of its land and leaflets appeared in the Cambodian capital calling for a boycott of Thai goods, as a military standoff over disputed border territory entered a second week Wednesday.On Tuesday, Cambodia asked the U.N. Security

Thai noodles: the first victim of the Preah Vihear spat

23 July 2008By Kang KallyanCambodge Soir HebdoTranslated from French by Luc SârCourtesy of Ki-MediaThe calls for the boycott of Thai products are increasing. The Men Sarun Co. which sells the Mama brand package noodle from Thailand, is stopping its production in Cambodia.“We cannot allow Thailand to continue to look down on our people. It you are Khmer or of Khmer blood, forward this SMS to all

Strong economy boosts Cambodia's ruling party ahead of polls

People walk past a cut out model of the International Finance Complex (IFC) Phnom Penh in Phnom PenhPHNOM PENH (AFP) — Once sleepy streets in Cambodia's capital are crammed with construction sites, crowned by towering cranes building the first skyscrapers in the leafy, low-rise city.Phnom Penh's building boom is one of the most visible signs of the sweeping changes in one of the world's poorest

The win-win way for Cambodia and Thailand

DR. SOMKIATI ARIYAPRUCHYAThe recent military buildup along the Thai-Cambodian border is proving to be very disturbing because both sides have a lot to gain and a lot more to lose if the matter is not quickly brought to a peaceful end.One must look at the big picture. Continued good relations between the two countries would reap huge benefits for Cambodia and Thailand in terms of increased

UN boss is worried about the Thai-Cambodia border dispute

By The Nation UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon is closely following the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. He is concerned about what he called the current escalation of tensions between the countries, according to the UN website.He called both sides for

Preah Vihear Is A Victim Of Thailand’s Political Crisis And Khmer Weakness

Editorial by Khmerization“Cambodia must send strong and unequivocal messages to Thailand and the world that Thailand’s occupation of the so-called “disputed zone” is unacceptable and is a flagrant violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and that Thailand must withdraw its troops immediately and unconditionally before any negotiation will take place regarding the border

Flood of donations for beleaguered Preah Vihear Cambodians

Ly MenghourThe Mekong TimesAs the Cambodian public’s anger over the Preah Vihear incursions grows, donations for the poorly-equipped Cambodian soldiers currently standing off against the Thai military have turned into a flood.King Norodom Sihamoni, King Father Norodom Sihanouk and his wife, King Mother Monineath, have now donated supplies for the Cambodian soldiers deployed at Preah Vihear.The

Cambodia informs compatriots about Thai encroachment of its territory

Cambodian military police patrol Preah Vihear temple, 245 km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 21, 2008. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)PHNOM PENH, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia has spoken more seriously about its border dispute with Thailand, as its foreign ministry issued a letter Tuesday to its compatriots to tell about the Thai occupation of its territory and the ensuing Thai military threat."On

ASEAN FAILS TO GET CONSENSUS FOR ASEAN CONTACT GROUP ON THAI-CAMBODIA DISPUTE

By From Tengku Noor Shamsiah Tengku Abdullah Bernama - Wednesday, July 23SINGAPORE, July 22 (Bernama) -- Asean foreign ministers failed in their bid at a special meeting here today to form an Asean Contact Group to help support the efforts of Thailand and Cambodia to resolve their border disputes.ADVERTISEMENT"The proposal found favour with a number of foreign ministers but there was also a

Cambodia seeks UN intervention in Thai dispute

By SOPHENG CHEANG – PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AP) — Cambodia asked the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday to intervene in its dispute with Thailand over land near an ancient temple, saying the standoff had created "an imminent state of war."But a clash seemed a remote possibility near the hilltop Preah Vihear temple, where more than 4,000 troops from both countries were camped out. The soldiers —

ASEAN Fails to Resolve Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute

By VOA News 22 July 2008 The 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations failed to resolve a simmering border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand during an emergency meeting Tuesday.Diplomats said both countries presented their side of the issue during a lunch meeting, but no progress was made.Thai soldiers enter to a Cambodian

Asean talks fail to ease Thai-Cambodia tensions

Thailand's Supreme Commander Gen Boonstrang Niampradit (right) shakes hands with Cambodia's Deputy Premier and Defence Minister Gen Tea Banh. -- PHOTO: AP

Two Cambodian Journalists Win Hellman/Hammett Writer’s Award

Rights Group Honors Defenders of Independent Media in Cambodia (New York, July 22, 2008) – Two young Cambodian journalists, Chheang Bopha and Duong Sokha, are among a diverse group of 34 writers from 19 countries to receive the prestigious Hellman/Hammett writer’s award, which recognizes courage in the face of political persecution, Human Rights Watch said today. Chheang Bopha

Peace talks end in stalemate?: Thailand and Cambodia cannot agree on how to resolve dispute

THAILAND yesterday rejected a Cambodian request to allow Asean to mediate in their simmering border dispute that has led to hundreds of troops from both sides being stationed around the ruins of the Preah Vihear temple. .The dispute was raised during an unscheduled lunch meeting of 10 Asean foreign ministers who were in Singapore for their annual talks. .The lunch talks came a day after senior

Royal Palace Donates Food To Preah Vihear Residents

Cambodian villagers carry food donated by the royal palace for soldiers and villagers at Preah Vihear temple, 245km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 22, 2008. Southeast Asian foreign ministers nudged Thailand and Cambodia on Tuesday to resolve a stand-off over an ancient temple on their border before bullets start flying. REUTERS/Chor SokuntheaCambodian police officers carry a bag of rice

Cambodian PM writes to UNESCO, accuses Thailand of aggression

PHNOM PENH, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has written a letter to UNESCO, accusing Thailand of aggression by moving troops into disputed border territory, and warned that Thailand threatened peace in the region. "Thai behavior gravely threatens peace and stability in the region" and Thailand is "defying all principles of international law," Hun Sen said in the letter

No foreign mediator needed in Cambodia talks: Thailand

BANGKOK: Thailand does not want foreign mediators involved in its border dispute with Cambodia, a Thai military official said Tuesday, but conceded that the two sides were at a stalemate. General Boonsrang Niumpradit, Thailand's chief negotiator in the dispute, on Monday ended negotiations with Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Banh without any resolution to their military standoff. Neither country

ASEAN ministers confront Thai-Cambodia crisis

ASEAN foreign ministers and senior officials meet in SingaporeSINGAPORE (AFP) — ASEAN held crisis talks Tuesday on the military standoff between Thailand and Cambodia, but failed to defuse the row that threatens to escalate into an unprecedented test for the regional bloc.Cambodia's request for the 10-member group to intervene by forming a body to help resolve the looming conflict was also

Cambodia asks UN to intervene in 'imminent state of war' with Thailand

A Cambodian soldier carrying a rocket launcher as he walks past a Thai soldier on Tuesday outside a Buddhist pagoda Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. (Heng Sinith/The Associated Press) By Seth MydansBANGKOK: Calling a border confrontation with Thailand "an imminent state of war," Cambodia asked the United Nations and its Southeast Asian neighbors to intervene Tuesday as hundreds of soldiers faced

Thailand, Cambodia committed to peaceful resolution of border dispute

Foreign Ministers and representatives to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plus three foreign ministers meeting hold hands during the meeting in Singapore July 22, 2008. Foreign ministers from the ASEAN countries and China, Japan and South Korea attended the meeting here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)Photo Gallery>>> SINGAPORE, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia and Thailand

Cambodia wants Security Council meeting

A Cambodian soldier relaxes near a rocket launcher outside a Buddhist pagoda where Thai soldiers have occupied, near Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Tuesday, July 22, 2008. Cambodia has requested an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council to break a military stalemate with neighboring Thailand over disputed frontier territory around a historic temple. (AP Photo/Heng

Towards Hun Sen's Cambodia

By Craig GuthriePHNOM PENH - Even though Cambodia goes to the polls Sunday for the country's fourth general election since Vietnamese occupation ended in 1989, Prime Minister Hun Sen can comfortably escape the chaotic campaign noise in his heavily guarded, villa-studded compound in suburban Phnom Penh and light up a well-earned 555 cigarette - his smoke of choice since his soldiering days.The

Cambodia's Premier in Strong Position Ahead of Vote

Hun Sen Has Steered Economic Miniboom, But Graft AboundsBy PATRICK BARTAJuly 22, 2008; PHNOM PENH, Cambodia -- Prime Minister Hun Sen, whose party is expected to win re-election here Sunday, is credited by many Cambodians with guiding their country to become one of Asia's newest investment hot spots.After enduring one of the worst genocides in history, a new Cambodia now features skyscrapers,

Cambodia's corruption 'cancer' unlikely to sway voters

Ranariddh Party supporters rallyPHNOM PENH (AFP) — Cambodia is rising from the ashes of civil war and the brutal legacy of the Khmer Rouge's "Killing Fields," but it remains hobbled by endemic corruption hindering its efforts to escape poverty.As the country records high economic growth, authorities have been accused of extorting payoffs and officials have been linked to everything from high

Ban Ki-moon asks Cambodia, Thailand to peacefully resolve temple issue

UNITED NATIONS: Expressing concern over heightening tension between Cambodia and Thailand over an ancient temple on their border, United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon has appealed both sides to peacefully resolve the issue.Both countries lay claim over 4.6 square kilometres areas around the Preash Vihear Temple which was inscribed on the World Heritage List of the UN Educational, Scientific and

ASEAN ministers confront Thai-Cambodia crisis

Cambodian paramilitary personnel stand guard at the Preah Vihear temple SINGAPORE (AFP) — ASEAN held crisis talks with member states Thailand and Cambodia on Tuesday over an armed border standoff which is threatening to escalate into an unprecedented test for the regional bloc.The unscheduled talks took place behind closed doors during annual ministerial meetings here as Cambodia called for an

UN boss is worried about the Thai-Cambodia border dispute

By The NationUN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon is closely following the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. He is concerned about what he called the current escalation of tensions between the countries, according to the UN website.He called both sides for restraints and hoped that this matter can be resolved peacefully and by diplomatic means with regards to the bilateral excellent

Ex-Khmer Rouge troops, officers talk tough at standoff

Cambodia troops seen moving toward the disputed zone.Tuesday, 22 July, 2008AFPPREAH VIHEAR: They may wear flip-flops, but most the Cambodian forces facing Thai troops at a border standoff are battle-tested former Khmer Rouge fighters, officers and soldiers said yesterday.More than 500 Thai troops and well over 1,000 Cambodian soldiers have been stationed for a week around a small Buddhist pagoda

The Preah Vihear Failed Talk: Which Country Will Benefit?

Editorial by Khmerization“The longer the negotiation drags on, the better Thailand would position itself and the more international community would lose momentum and interests in the conflict. If this is to happen, Cambodia would have an uphill battle to win this dispute diplomatically and, to a certain extent, legally. Cambodia must move forward very quickly in its diplomatic drives in order to

Cambodian-Thai Border Talks Fail to Reach Solution

No deal: Thai Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsrang Niampradit (r.) and Cambodian Defense Minister Gen .Tea Banh (l.) met Monday to discuss their nations' border dispute.Apichart Weerawong/AP By Liam Cochrane 2-348523 21 July 2008 Cochrane report - Download (MP3) Cochrane report - Listen

Why Thai-Cambodian temple dispute lingers

Whose ancient temple is it? Thailand and Cambodia failed Monday to end a weeklong border dispute at Preah Vihear. Both sides’ troops are stationed nearby.Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images/Newscom

Thai-Cambodia temple talks fail

The 11th-century Hindu ruin is at the centre of a diplomatic row [EP

Cambodia turns down Thai request to review border lines

Cambodia's Deputy Premier and Defense Minister Gen. Tea Banh, left, is shown the way by Thailand's Army Chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda after the General Border Committee meeting in the Thai-Cambodian border town of Aranyaprathet, Thailand Monday, July 21, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia say troops from the two countries will remain near a disputed temple, in what appears to be a failure to resolve the

Mediation offer in Thai-Cambodia dispute

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Talks fail to end Thai-Cambodia row

ARANYAPRATHET, Thailand • Talks between Thailand and Cambodia failed yesterday to end a week-long military stand-off over an ancient temple on their border, which regional neighbours feared could turn violent. Hundreds of troops at the temple will hold their positions, negotiators said after eight hours of talks on an issue that has whipped up nationalist fervour in both southeast Asian

Thai-Cambodia crisis talks end with no deal

Cambodia's Deputy Premier and Defense Minister Gen. Tea Banh, left, is shown the way by Thailand's Army Chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda after the General Border Committee meeting in the Thai-Cambodian border town of Aranyaprathet, Thailand Monday, July 21, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia say troops from the two countries will remain near a disputed temple, in what appears to be a failure to resolve the

Thai-Khmer four-eyed meeting continues

Thailand's Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsrang Niampradit, right, leads Cambodia's Deputy Premier and Defence Minister Gen. Tea Banh, left, shortly after the latter one arrives for a meeting in the Thai-Cambodian border town of Aranyaprathet, Thailand Monday, July 21, 2008. Cambodian and Thai military leaders began talks Monday aimed at resolving a lingering dispute over territory near a World

Cambodia-Thailand Talks Over Preah Vihear Conflict

Thailand's Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsrang Niampradit, right, leads Cambodia's Deputy Premier and Defence Minister Gen. Tea Banh, left, shortly after the latter one arrives for a meeting in the Thai-Cambodian border town of Aranyaprathet, Thailand, Monday, July 21, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia agreed to hold talks to avoid military action after they have massed troops on their disputed border

Thai delegation arrives Sa Kaew hotel for meeting

Sa Kaew - Thai representatives arrived at the Indochina Hotel in Aranyaprathet at 9 am Monday to attend a joint border meeting with their Cambodian counterparts.The delegation was led by Supreme Commander Gen Boonsrang Niampradit.Other members of the General Border Committee, who will take part in the meeting, include Army Commander-in-Chief Gen Anupong Paochinda, Border Patrol Police

Thailand offers 'reasonable proposals' to defuse tension: Supreme Commander

Thai delegation led by Gen. Boonsrang (left) arrived at the meeting venue in Sakeo.SA KAEO, July 21 (TNA) - Talks between Thailand's Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsang Niempradit and Cambodian Defence Minister Gen. Tea Banh in this Thai eastern border province, aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the border conflict over the disputed ancient temple, continued into Monday afternoon with the Thai

Cambodia-Thai temple dispute talks start

ARANYAPRATHET, Thailand (AFP) — Senior Thai and Cambodian defence officials met Monday to try and end a six-day military standoff near a prized temple on the border, but there was little sign of a swift resolution.As more than 500 Thai and 1,000 Cambodian troops faced off on disputed land near the ancient temple , Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Banh sat down with senior Thai military officials in

Pessimism as Cambodia-Thai border talks start

by Thanaporn Promyamyai ARANYAPRATHET, Thailand (AFP) - Senior defence officials from Thailand and Cambodia met Monday to try and end a week-long military standoff on their border, but there was little hope for a swift resolution.As more than 500 Thai and 1,000 Cambodian troops faced off in disputed land near a prized Hindu temple, Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Banh sat down with senior Thai

Thai-Cambodia border meeting starts

·A special meeting of Thai-Cambodia General Border Committee (GBC) started Monday. ·Both sides agreed to suspend military movements that may cause further tension. ·The military standoff between Cambodia and Thailand entered into its 7th day Monday. BANGKOK, July 21 (Xinhua) -- A special meeting of Thai-Cambodia General Border Committee (GBC) to defuse conflicts over disputed border area of

Thailand, Cambodia begin peace talks

Sunrise looks over Cambodia's Preah Vihear temple near the Cambodian-Thai border in Preah Vihear, Cambodia Monday, July 21, 2008. The two nations will begin talks Monday aimed at resolving a lingering dispute over territory near a World Heritage Site temple, where more than 4,000 troops from the two sides have been deployed. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)By APICHART WEERAWONG – ARANYAPRATHET,

Thailand, Cambodia holds talks on temple row

By Nopporn Wong-Anan ARANYAPRATHET, Thailand (Reuters) - Thailand and Cambodia began high-level talks on Monday aimed at resolving a military stand-off over the disputed Preah Vihear temple on their joint border. Cambodian military police patrol Preah Vihear temple, 245 km north of Phnom Penh, July 21, 2008. (REUTERS/Chor Sokunthea) After a week of diplomatic sparring and a build-up

Pessimism as Cambodia-Thai border talks start

Cambodian soldiers look on as Buddhist monks walk towards a pagoda near the Thai borderARANYAPRATHET, Thailand (AFP) — Senior defence officials from Thailand and Cambodia met Monday to try and end a week-long military standoff on their border, but there was little hope for a swift resolution.As more than 500 Thai and 1,000 Cambodian troops faced off in disputed land near a prized Hindu temple,

Talks begin over temple standoff

The 11th-century Hindu ruin is at the centre of a diplomatic row [EPA)

Cambodia's Hun Sen, one-eyed guerrilla turned to statesman

Hun Sen making a speech at one of his many bridge inaugurations on June 18th.By Patrick Falby, AFPMonday, July 21, 2008PHNOM PENH -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen lost an eye as a Khmer Rouge guerrilla in the 1970s,but later abandoned the movement in his own ruthless drive to secure power and undercut all his rivals.The 55-year-old premier has vowed to remain Cambodia's head of state until he

Cambodia sees little hope for Thai talks

Cambodian soldiers stand at Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Sunday, July 20, 2008. Cambodia complained to the U.N. Security Council that Thai forces have violated its territory near a World Heritage Site temple, as more than 4,000 troops from the two sides were deployed in the border region Sunday. (AP Photo/Str)By SOPHENG CHEANG – PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AP) —

ASEAN ministers offer help in Thai-Cambodia dispute

Reuters Sunday, July 20, 2008; SINGAPORE (Reuters) - The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) urged Thailand and Cambodia to show "utmost caution and restraint" and offered to help resolve a stand-off between them, the head of the bloc's secretariat said on Monday. Surin Pitsuan, ASEAN Secretary-General, said Phnom Penh also denied lodging a complaint or seeking intervention

Asean calls for 'utmost restraint' in Thai-Cambodia dispute

Grouping pledges help if both sides need support to resolve issue By Reme Ahmad & Wong Mei Ling DINNER MEETING: Asean foreign

TEMPLE OF GLOOM: Temple border talks on today

July 21, 2008The NationThe biggest talking point this week is definitely the dispute related to Preah Vihear, which has become an international conflict for Thailand.The problem led to a confrontation between Thailand and Cambodia and between the People's Alliance for Democracy and its opponents, including the government.Today, Supreme Commander Gen Boonsrang Niampradit will represent the Thai

Standoff 'could last years'

By Wassana Nanuam and Saritdet MarukatatBangkok Post Prime Minister Hun Sen looks set to lead his Cambodian People's Party to another victory. But he could lose credibility during the last lap of the campaign if the Cambodian military withdraws from the overlapping zone, the source said. Supreme Commander Boonsrang Niempradit and Cambodian Defence Minister Teah Banh are heading to

The Serenity Of Preah Vihear, Despite Troops Build-Up

Sunrise looks over Cambodia's Preah Vihear temple near the Cambodian-Thai border in Preah Vihear, Cambodia Monday, July 21, 2008. The two nations will begin talks Monday aimed at resolving a lingering dispute over territory near a World Heritage Site temple, where more than 4,000 troops from the two sides have been deployed. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)Sunrise

George Yeo says Thailand, Cambodia make pledge on border row

SINGAPORE — Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to "exert utmost efforts" to find a peaceful solution to their border stand—off at a disputed temple, Singapore’s Foreign Minister George Yeo (pictured) said Sunday."Both sides affirmed that they would abide by their ASEAN and international obligations and exert their utmost efforts to find a peaceful solution to the issue," Mr Yeo said as Southeast

Tensions High as Cambodia Claims Thailand Has Violated Territory in Temple Dispute

APJuly 20, 2008: A Cambodian Buddhist monk at the entrance gate on the border between Cambodia and Thailand near Preah Vihear temple.PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia — Cambodia complained to the U.N. Security Council that Thai forces have violated its territory near a World Heritage Site temple, as more than 4,000 troops from the two sides were deployed in the border region Sunday.The two countries

Ministers hope for Thai-Cambodian temple solution

Thailand and Cambodia are due to hold talks today over the Preah Vihear temple dispute. [Reuters] Thailand and Cambodia are due to hold talks today on a simmering border dispute that's seen an escalation of military troop activity.The row was prompted in part by UNESCO's decision to grant Cambodia world heritage status for its ancient Preah Vihear Hindu temple.Both countries lay claim to 4.6

Cambodia, Thailand to exert efforts to settle border row - Summary

Singapore - Cambodia and Thailand assured the Association of the South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Sunday that they will exert their utmost efforts to settle a raging border row amicably. Foreign ministers from the two bickering countries told their counterparts from the 10-member regional grouping that they will "abide by their ASEAN and international obligations."Singapore Foreign Minister

ASEAN chief calls for restrain in border dispute

Singapore - ASEAN chief Surin Pitsuwan (pictured) has called for "maximum restraint" in the border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand, while Cambodia has asked for UN intervention, news reports said Sunday. Nearly 1,000 Cambodian troops and more than 500 Thai soldiers continue to face each other on the disputed territory. Surin Pitsuwan, secretary-general of the Association of South-East

Temple talkfest

At its meeting this week, Asean will hope that Cambodia and Thailand exercise utmost restraint in resolving the issue - but the regional body will not take sides, or action.Singapore (dpa, agencies) - The Association of the Southeast Asian Nations will discuss the border row between two of its members, Cambodia and Thailand, one of the ministers said Sunday.Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan

Cambodia complains to UN over temple row with Thais

Thai reinforcements to the "disputed zone" on 18th July. PHNOM PENH, July 20 (Reuters) - Cambodia has complained to the U.N. Security Council about its military standoff with Thailand over an ancient temple on their disputed border. Hundreds of Thai and Cambodian troops faced each other at the Preah Vihear temple for a sixth day on Sunday, a standoff that some fear could turn violent.

Cambodia says Thai forces violated temple

Thailand has boosted its military presence in Preah Vihear on 19th July.Cambodia says Thai forces have violated its territory near a World Heritage listed temple where hundreds of troops continued to face off yesterday Cambodia's permanent mission in New York submitted a letter to the United Nations drawing its attention to "the situation on the Cambodian-Thai border,"

The Mekong dilemma

By HANIM ADNAN DUBBED the last frontier markets in Asia – Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar – hold positive long-term prospects in attracting more foreign direct investments (FDIs), but they will need to address the challenge of managing their economies well, especially during the current global economic slowdown. Most economists contacted by StarBiz are projecting that the Mekong

Cambodia's Hun Sen set to dominate polls

The CPP's trio: Heng Samrin, Chea Sim and Hun Sen at the launch of the election campaign on 26th June, 2008.Agence France Presse PHNOM PENH: Cambodian political parties are staging raucous rallies throughout the country ahead of next week's polls, but few expect voters to oust the party that has ruled

Border dispute, Myanmar, top ASEAN ministers' talks

SINGAPORE (AFP) — Southeast Asian foreign ministers urged Thailand and Cambodia to show restraint in a border dispute, and urged Myanmar to free all political prisoners, as annual talks began Sunday night.Ministers from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) began their talks over dinner while two of its members, Thailand and Cambodia, were locked in an armed standoff over a

Chinese, Cambodian Leaders Exchange Greetings on 50th Anniversary of Ties

BEIJING, July 19 (Xinhua) - Chinese and Cambodian leaders exchanged congratulatory messages on Saturday to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chinese National People's Congress (NPC), said in a message that in the past 50 years, bilateral ties developed smoothly and the two

Asean talks overshadowed by Thai-Cambodia dispute, Myanmar

A TENSE border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, and perennial questions over military-run Myanmar, are overshadowing three-day talks among Asean foreign ministers starting here on Sunday. The 10-member Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean) is due to kick off their annual meeting in Singapore

Preah Vihear: More troop movements 20.7.08

Thais clear land mines at a Cambodian Buddhist temple complex near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Sunday, July 20, 2008. A Cambodian general said Sunday that he has little hope that upcoming talks between his government and Thailand will resolve a tense border dispute that has seen hundreds of troops face off around an ancient temple.

Cambodia informs UN Security Council of Thai incursion into its territory

Thai soldiers stand guard at a Cambodian Buddhist temple complex which they have occupied near Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Saturday, July 19, 2008. A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding the ancient Preah Vihear temple entered.

Cambodia complains to UN

Embassy staff flown to temple site, more Thai troops sent to border, Security Council told of Thai 'interference'By Wassana Nanuam and Agence France-PresseThe Cambodian government has launched a diplomatic offensive, complaining to the United Nations Security Council about Thai interference on its soil in the Preah Vihear temple area, where soldiers of the two countries are building up their

ANALYSIS-Temple tantrums stalk Thai-Cambodia relations

By Nopporn Wong-Anan KHAO PRA VIHARN, Thailand, July 20 (Reuters) - Five years after a row over the famed Angkor Wat temples turned violent, the ownership of another religious site is again inflaming passions in Thailand and Cambodia.A volatile mix of politics and nationalism swirling around the Preah Vihear temple, perched on a disputed border where troops faced off for a sixth day on

Cambodia reports Thai incursions to U.N.

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (CNN) -- Cambodia has sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council to call attention to its continuing standoff with Thailand over an ancient border temple on disputed land.

Thailand condemned for kicking out refugees

Karen civilians face violence in Burma DEUTSCHE PRESSE-AGENTUR New York-based Human Rights

Cambodia: Little hope for Thai talks

Thai soldiers on a truck head to reinforce colleagues at a camp along the Thai-Cambodian border July 19, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia have deployed troops in a stand-off over the 900-year-old Preah Vihear Hindu temple. REUTERS/Nopporn Wong-Anan (THAILAND) By SOPHENG

Cambodia informs UN on alleged incrusion

A newly-arrived Thai soldier, center, walks through Cambodian soldiers as he heads from the border to a Cambodian Buddhist temple which Thai soldiers have occupied Saturday, July 19, 2008 near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. The military stand off between Cambodia and Thailand entered its fifth day Saturday, as both sides continue to reinforce their troops ahead of scheduled

Cambodian-Thai border dispute deadlocked: commander

A Cambodian soldier carries a grenade launcher near the ruins of Preah Vihear temple near the Thai-Cambodia borderPREAH VIHEAR (AFP) — Upcoming talks between Cambodia and Thailand are unlikely to resolve the military standoff at their disputed border near an ancient temple, a Cambodian commander said on Sunday.More than 500 Thai troops and well over 1,000 Cambodian soldiers are stationed around a

Samak says Cambodia lodges complaint with UN over border dispute

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej (pictured) said Sunday that he would no longer comment on the issue of border dispute with Cambodia after the neighbouring country lodged a complaint with the United Nations.Samak said the issue would now be a matter under responsibility of the Foreign Ministry.He complained that he earlier warned the government's opponents not to play up the issue but they did not

Defending The Nation

Saturday, July 19, 2008 Montreal, Canada DEFENDING THE NATIONDear Fellow Khmers, The current standoff at Preah Vihear reminds us all how quickly a military conflict can flare up and escalate, and that the nation must remain on guard and continuously prepare for potential military confrontations.As we read the news online and anxiously watch the situation unfold, many of us ask the very same

Pictures of Thai troop movements

Thai soldiers waits in front of a 105mm artillery gun, part of a convoy heading to reinforce soldiers at a camp along the Thai-Cambodian border July 19, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia sent troops and heavy guns on Saturday to their disputed border, where hundreds of soldiers faced off for a fifth day over the Preah Vihear temple. REUTERS/Sukree Sukplang (

Cambodia asks for UN help in Thai border stand-off: Thailand

Thai soldiers sit in a truck towing a 105mm artillery gun during a convoy heading to reinforce soldiers at a camp along the Thai-Cambodian border July 19, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia sent troops and heavy guns on Saturday to their disputed border, where hundreds of soldiers faced off for a fifth day over the Preah Vihear temple. REUTERS/Sukree Sukplang (

More troops, rhetoric in Thai-Cambodia temple row

Thai soldiers sit in a truck towing a 105mm artillery gun in a convoy heading to reinforce soldiers at a camp along the Thai-Cambodian border July 19, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia sent troops and heavy guns on Saturday to their disputed border, where hundreds of soldiers faced off for a fifth day over the Preah Vihear temple. REUTERS/Sukree Sukplang (

Border moves halted, pending Monday talks

Thai soldiers on a truck head to reinforce colleagues at a camp along the Thai-Cambodian border July 19, 2008. Thailand and Cambodia sent troops and heavy guns on Saturday to their disputed border, where hundreds of soldiers faced off for a fifth day over an ancient Hindu temple. REUTERS/Nopporn Wong-AnanThailand and Cambodia agreed to temporary suspend

Thailand, Cambodia halt military moves pending border talks

Thai tanks are seen moving into the border areas close to the disputed zone on 19th July.BANGKOK, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Both Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to temporarily suspend all military movements along the Thai-Cambodian border at Thailand's Si Sa Ket province and Cambodia's Preah Vihear province, waiting for the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) meeting to be held in Thai Sa

Foreign diplomats to ease Thai-Cambodia conflict

Sat Jul 19, 2008 The dispute over the area surrounding the Preah Vihear temple nearly erupted into a shootout on Friday [Reuters] Foreign officials have flown to the Thai-Cambodian border as a tense five-day standoff between hundreds of troops led leaders to warn of "deteriorating" relations between the neighbours.US, Chinese, French and Vietnamese embassy staff flew by helicopter from the

Thai Supreme Commander confident no border clash between Thai, Cambodia troops

BANGKOK, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's Supreme Commander of Royal Thai Armed Forces Boonsrang Niumpraditt (pictured) Saturday expressed confidence that Thai and Cambodian troops would not clash although the troops have been built up along the disputed border line near Preah Vihear temple. Speaking on a Bangkok radio station, Boonsrang said there will definitely be no violence.

Military Border Standoff Enters Fifth Day

By Reporters, VOA Khmer Original reports from Cambodia and Washington 19 July 2008 A Cambodian monk walks past a Thai soldier near Preah Vihear temple Saturday.Military attaches from at least four countries and Cambodia's top military police commander traveled to Preah Vihear temple near the Thai border Saturday, as a military standoff

Protection, Not Incursion: Thai Officers

By Vong Dara, VOA Khmer Original report from Banthey Meanchey province 18 July 2008 Khmer audio aired 18 July 2008 (1.12 MB) - Download (MP3) Khmer audio aired 18 July 2008 (1.12 MB) - Listen (MP3) A squad of Thai soldiers passes a Cambodian soldier near Preah Vihear temple Friday.Thai

Boonsang: Only military-related issues to be discussed at border meeting

BANGKOK, July 19 (TNA) - Thailand's Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsang Niempradit said Saturday he would confer only on militarily-related issues with Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Banh when they meet early next week.Gen. Boonsang has been assigned by Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to lead the Thai delegation to Monday's session of the Thai-Cambodian General Border Committee (GBC) at Sa Kaeo on

SRP position on Thai invasion of Cambodia

19 July 2008Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) Members of Parliament recognize the invasion of the Thai army near Preah Vihear temple as a violation of Cambodia's territorial rights and international law. According to the treaties signed in 1904 and 1907 between France and Siam (now Thailand) recognized by the Hague International Court on 15th of June 1962, the recent invasion of Preah Vihear violates this

Cambodian prince calls for family's Khmer Rouge killers to be brought to justice

Prince Thomico with the garland.by Nick Meo in Phnom Penh19/07/2008In a whitewashed mansion of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Prince Thomico Sisowath gestured wistfully towards a table covered with black and white photos of his parents from the happy time before they were arrested by the Khmer Rouge.Outside, an election slogan blared from a van's loudspeaker, interrupting the murmur of chanting

Too much adoration at Cambodia's Angkor temples

The crush of tourists at the sandstone ruins is taking a toll, conservationists say. By Paul Watson, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer July 19, 2008 Angkor Wat Suffering From Flood of Tourists More Photos » ord= 2907846133241688

Cambodians seek stability after decades of misery

Sam Rainsy (pictured):"We will simply go the Burmese way". By Raphael Minder Phnom PenhJuly 19 2008 function floatContent(){var paraNum = "3" paraNum = paraNum - 1;var tb = document.getElementById('floating-con');var nl = document.getElementById('floating-target');if(tb.getElementsByTagName("div").length> 0){if (nl.getElementsByTagName("p").length>= paraNum){nl.insertBefore(tb,

The Preah Vihear Conflict: What Is The Solution?

Editorial by Khmerization“First, Cambodia should invite the foreign diplomatic and international press corps to visit the conflict zone in order to win international opinion to its crusade. Secondly, Cambodia should use the upcoming talks with Thailand to press for a total Thai withdrawal from the conflict zone. Thirdly, if that fails, Cambodia can take this matter to the Association of South

Thailand and Cambodia sent more troops to Preah Vihear

Cambodian soldiers stand guard near a Buddhist temple which was occupied by Thai soldiers Saturday, July 19, 2008 near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. The military stand off between Cambodia and Thailand enters its fifth day Saturday as both sides continue to reinforce their troops ahead of scheduled talks over a disputed border area.

Thailand, Cambodia Increase Troops Along Border, AFP Reports

Newly-arrived Thai soldiers walk from the border to a Cambodian Buddhist temple which their fellow soldiers have occupied Saturday, July 19, 2008 near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. The military stand off between Cambodia and Thailand entered its fifth day Saturday as both sides continue to reinforce their troops ahead of scheduled talks over a disputed border area.

Thai PM Samak's "Note" sent to Cambodian PM

Samak (R) greets Hun Sen (L) during Samak's visit to Cambodia on 3rd March, 2008. BANGKOK, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has invited Cambodian Ambassador Ung Sean to receive a letter from Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in response to the Cambodian premier's July17 diplomatic "Note", the official Thai News Agency reported on

Worried Thai hands leaving Cambodia

Workers abandon construction sitePOST REPORTERSSI SA KET : About 300 Thai construction hands working for Ch Karnchang Plc returned from Cambodia yesterday, fearing the already tense situation would deteriorate into violence and their safety would be compromised over the Preah Vihear temple conflict.The group abandoned the construction site of a national road project in Oddar Meancheay province

Cambodia and Thailand further increase troops in border standoff

Cambodian soldiers stand guard near a Buddhist temple which was occupied by Thai soldiers Saturday, July 19, 2008 near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. The military stand off between Cambodia and Thailand enters its fifth day Saturday as both sides continue to reinforce their troops ahead of scheduled talks over a disputed border area.

More troops on Thai-Cambodian border

Thai soldiers stand guard at a Cambodian Buddhist temple complex which they have occupied Saturday, July 19, 2008 near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. The military stand off between Cambodia and Thailand enters its fifth day Saturday as both sides continue to reinforce their troops ahead of scheduled talks over a disputed border area.

Pure evil Siem

Dear Khmerization, The situation between Khmer and Siem (Thai) is getting very tense. Can we gather all the information and photos and call an urgent meeting with UN or ASEAN? It is a good time to remind the UN past Thai aggressions on Khmer territories. We must also be very careful that this is obviously Thai propaganda to disturb Cambodian election which most of the time affect ordinary people

Thai ultra-nationalists protest for the return of Preah Vihear

Thai nationalist protesters march along a highway leading to the 900-year-old Preah Vihear temple along the Cambodian border July 17, 2008. A ruling by the U.N. agency for culture and education to list the temple as a World Heritage site has angered many nationalist Thais and threatens to cause a diplomatic row with Cambodia. Picture taken July 17, 2008.

Preah Vihear: Life of Cambodians at the occupied zone

Cambodian villagers walk back to their village near a Buddhist temple where Thai soldiers occupied in Preah Vihear, Cambodia, Friday, July 18, 2008. The temple is located near Cambodia's Preah Vihear temple. A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding the ancient

More Cambodian troops in Preah Vihear on 18 July, 2008

Cambodian soldiers guard Preah Vihear temple, 245 km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 18, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops from a disputed ancient temple. REUTERS/Chor Sokunthea (CAMBODIA)Cambodian minister Phay Siphan shows a map

More Thai troops in Preah Vihear on 18 July 2008

Thai army soldiers guard in a Cambodian Buddhist temple where Thai soldiers occupied near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Friday, July 18, 2008. A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding the ancient temple entered its fourth day Friday.

Cambodia: Near shootout in dispute on Thai border

A fresh group of Thai soldiers walk from the border to a Cambodian Buddhist temple complex where their colleagues have occupied a temple near Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Friday, July 18, 2008. A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding

Cambodian and Thai forces nearly exchange fire amid temple standoff

Thai soldiers walk from the Thai border to a Cambodian Buddhist temple where Thai soldiers have occupied a temple near Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Friday, July 18, 2008. A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding an ancient temple entered

Thailand in tense border standoff with Cambodia

Soldiers from Thailand patrol the Cekakiri Svarak pagoda in the Preah Vihaer temple compound, along the Thai-Cambodian border July 18, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops from a disputed ancient temple. In a letter to Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, Hun Sen said the stand-off at

Cambodian and Thai troops face off in temple dispute

Suy Se Preah Vihear,Cambodia July 19, 2008 Cambodian soldiers patrol the Preah Vihear temple ruins. PICTURE: AP Photo: Heng Sinith CAMBODIAN and Thai soldiers have pointed their weapons at each other for the first time in a tense land dispute on their border, witnesses and officials say. Cambodia and Thailand are massing troops on the disputed

Some 300 Thai workers return from Cambodia for fear of violence

BANGKOK, July 18 (Xinhua) -- About 300 Thai workers near Thai-Cambodian borders stopped working and returned to Thailand Friday as the disputed Preah Vihear temple issue became more volatile, according to local media. The workers for Ch Karnchang construction firm left their heavyand light weight construction tools worth an estimate 100 million baht (3 million U.S. dollars) and crossed back

Cambodia sends more troops ahead of temple row talks

Buddhist monks sit with Cambodian soldiers on a road leading to the Preah Vihear temple near Thai border. Thailand sent more military reinforcements to a disputed part of the Cambodian border Friday, after the tense four-day standoff nearly erupted into gunfire during the night. (AFP/Tang Chhin Sothy)A fresh group of Thai soldiers walk from the border to a

General: Cambodia, Thai come close to shoot-out

A Thai soldier uses his mobile phone to takes a picture of a Cambodia flag in front of a Buddhist temple where Thai soldiers have occupied, near Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Friday, July 18, 2008. A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding an

Thai premier warns Cambodia of deteriorating border situation

Thai soldiers walk next to a pagoda near the Preah Vihear temple which is situated in Cambodia. Thailand sent more military reinforcements to a disputed part of the Cambodian border Friday, after the tense four-day standoff nearly erupted into gunfire during the night. (AFP/Tang Chhin Sothy) Bangkok - Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej on Friday warned

PM assigns supreme commander to attend border meeting with Cambodia

Prime Minister and Defence Minister Samak Sundaravej Friday assigned Supreme Commander Gen Boonsrang Niampradit to attend the General Border Committee meeting in Sa Kaew Monday.Lt Gen Niphat Thonglek, director of the Directorate of Military Border Affairs, said Boonsrang, who is deputy chairman of the GBC, will attend the meeting on behalf of Samak.He will be accompanied by the permanent

Cambodia-Thailand dispute worsens

Khmer troops being re-enforced to the disputed areas.By SOPHENG CHEANG – PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AP) — A Cambodian general said a border standoff between his soldiers and Thai troops came close to a shoot-out overnight as the confrontation over disputed territory surrounding an ancient temple entered its fourth day Friday.The dispute is centered around Cambodia's 11th century Hindu temple

Cambodian, Thai troops in stand-off

Thai soldiers (L) and Cambodian soldiers (R) walk past each other casually yesterday.BY SUY SE IN PHNOM PENH 18/07/2008 Cambodian and Thai soldiers held their positions on the border near an ancient temple yesterday as a stand-off over a territorial dispute entered its third day. More than 400 Thai troops and more than 800 Cambodian soldiers stood stationed

Cambodian PM says border dispute with Thailand worsening

Nopporn Wong-Anan , Reuters Published: Thursday, July 17, 2008KANTARALAK, Thailand - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops from a disputed ancient temple.In a letter to Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, Hun Sen said the stand-off at the Preah

Cambodian, Thai soldiers reportedly draw weapons

Cambodian commander (L) talks with Thai commander (R) on Thursday 17th, July.PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AFP) — Cambodian and Thai soldiers pointed their weapons at each other for the first time over a tense land dispute on their border, witnesses and officials said Friday.More than 400 Thai troops and 800 Cambodian soldiers are stationed around a small Buddhist pagoda on the slope of a mountain

Whose Funeral Is It, Anyway?

Dear Sir or Madam, Please find the attached file of an interesting photo from Cambodia. This photo was taken in July 6, 2008 in Prek Ambel Commune, Sa-ang District, Kandal Province along road 21. I don't know whose funeral is that. So, please guess it ! With regards Sen Anichakam

Cambodian soldiers deployed to defend Preah Vihear temple

Cambodian soldiers walk in the foggy morning as they patrol around Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday at disputed territory near the historic border temple despite moves to hold talks next week to defuse the flare-up in tensions, a Cambodian general said. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)A Cambodian

Thai occupying forces in Preah Vihear temple

A Thai soldier guards a Cambodian Buddhist temple near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday at disputed territory near the historic Preah Vihear border temple despite moves to hold talks next week to defuse the flare-up in tensions, a Cambodian general said. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)Soldiers from

Cambodian monks at the Cekakiri Svarak pagoda under Thai army occupation

Soldiers from Thailand stand guard as Cambodian Buddhist monks walk in through the gates of the Cekakiri Svarak pagoda in the compound of the Preah Vihaer temple, about 245 km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 17, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops from the disputed ancient

Thai police and villagers block Thai ultra-nationalists from reaching the Preah Vihear temple

Police and villagers block a convoy of nationalist protesters from reaching a disputed ancient temple on the country's border with Cambodia, 700 km (435 miles) northeast of Bangkok July 17, 2008. A political uproar in Thailand over Cambodia's listing of the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site has been stoked by anti-government groups seeking to oust Thai Prime Minister Samak

Cambodia, Thailand to meet on border military issue

A Cambodian soldier, left, speaks to Thai soldiers at a Cambodian Buddhist temple near Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday at disputed territory near the historic border temple despite their agreement to hold talks next week to defuse the tensions, a Cambodian general said.

Conflict worsens at Thailand Cambodia border

Police and villagers block a convoy of nationalist protesters from reaching a disputed ancient temple on the country's border with Cambodia, 700 km (435 miles) northeast of Bangkok July 17, 2008. A political uproar in Thailand over Cambodia's listing of the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site has been stoked by anti-government groups seeking to oust Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's

WB provides $30 mln credit in health support for Cambodia

PHNOM PENH , July 17 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank (WB) here Thursday signed agreements with the Cambodian government to provide 30 million U.S. dollars of credit for the second phase of the Health Sector Support Program for the kingdom. The program, approved by WB in June 2008, aims to improve health care and preventive health services for the Cambodian people, with particular emphasis on women

'Worsening' Status on Thai Border: Hun Sen

Soldiers from Thailand stand guard as Cambodian Buddhist monks walk in through the gates of the Cekakiri Svarak pagoda in the compound of the Preah Vihaer temple, about 245 km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 17, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops from the disputed ancient temple

Troop Numbers Rise Along Thai Border

Soldiers from Thailand (L) walk past Cambodian soldiers near the Cekakiri Svarak pagoda of the Preah Vihaer temple, about 245 km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 17, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops from the disputed ancient temple. A political uproar in Thailand over

Monitor Reports 'Serious' Campaign Concerns

The body of Khim Sambor shot dead on 11th July. By Reporters, VOA Khmer Original reports from Phnom Penh and Washington 16 July 2008 At least four people have been killed in three incidents during the election campaign, the Committee for Free and Fair Elections said in a report released Tuesday. "We have seen many killings and

High Costs Push Prey Veng Migration

By Chiep Mony, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 17 July 2008 Since she migrated to Phnom Penh nearly a year ago, 45-year-old Chhon Vanna has had no chance to visit her family in Prey Veng province. "I don't have money to visit there," she said, as she boxed up dried fish to sell at a nearby garment factory. "Since I lost

UN Office Calls for 'Credible' Murder Probe

The bodies of Khim Sambo and his son who were gunned down on 11th July. By Mean Veasna, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 17 July 2008 The UN human rights office called for a credible investigation into the shooting of an opposition journalist, noting that in the past such investigations have faltered. The Office of the High

In Face of Irregularities, Parties Carry On

Sam Rainsy on the campaign trail. By Mean Veasna, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 16 July 2008 [Editor's note: In the weeks leading into national polls, VOA Khmer will explore a wide number of election issues. The "Election Issues 2008" series will air stories on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by a related "Hello VOA" guest

Lawyer Requests Contact Between Detainees

By Chun Sakada, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 16 July 2008 A lawyer for Nuon Chea, right, says Khmer Rouge leaders in tribunal detention should have the right to communicate together.The Cambodian defense lawyer for jailed Khmer Rouge leader Nuon Chea has requested the tribunal to review a policy that says five detainees

Thai Air Force set to evacuate Thais in Cambodia if tensions escalate

BANGKOK, July 17 (Xinhua) -- The Royal Thai Air Force aircraft are ready and standby to fly out Thai nationals living in Cambodiaif tensions flare over the disputed Thai-Cambodian border at the ancient Preah Vihear temple, Thai Air Chief Chalit Phukbhasuk said Thursday. "If the situation worsens, the Air Force can assist on a 24-hour basis and can lift out Thai nationals to repatriate them

Cambodia, Thailand deploy more troops

Thai soldiers guarding the Khmer temple inside the "disputed territories".Cambodian soldiers patrol near Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday at disputed territory near the historic border temple despite moves to hold talks next week to defuse the flare-up in tensions, a Cambodian general

Cambodia, Thailand deploy more troops

Cambodian and Thai soldiers guarding the road next to each other.By SOPHENG CHEANG,Associated Press WriterPREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia — Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday in disputed territory near a historic border temple despite their agreement to hold talks next week to defuse tensions, a Cambodian general said.Cambodian Brig. Gen. Chea Keo said Thailand has more than 400

Cambodia alleges Thai troops crossing border

Khmer soldiers in the foreground and Thai soldiers in the background near Preah Vihear.Phnom Penh (dpa)The number of Thai troops in territory Cambodia considers sovereign increased Thursday, and local media reported fearful Cambodian residents had begun evacuating the area of a border dispute over an 11th-century Hindu temple.Preah Vihear, perched on a 525-metre high cliff on the Dongrak mountain

Cambodia in talks to ease tensions

Wern Champasak (L), Thailand's chief of border communication, talks to Colonel Som Bopharath, Cambodia's military commander of the Preah Vihear province at the Cekakiri Svarak pagoda in the compound of the Preah Vihaer temple, 245 km (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, July 17, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Thursday a border row with Thailand was "worsening" and urged the immediate

FACTBOX-Disputes between Thailand and Cambodia

Police and villagers block a convoy of nationalist protesters from reaching a disputed ancient temple on the country's border with Cambodia, 700 km (435 miles) northeast of Bangkok July 17, 2008. A political uproar in Thailand over Cambodia's listing of the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site has been stoked by anti-government groups seeking to oust Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's

Cambodia PM says border row getting worse

Samak (R) talks to Hun Sen during his visit to Cambodia on 3rd March, 2008. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said a border dispute with Thailand was "worsening'' and called for the immediate withdrawal of Thai troops and protesters from the area. In a letter to Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, Hun Sen said the three-day stand-off at the disputed Preah Vihear temple was "very bad for

Thailand and Cambodia to hold meeting over border temple row

Khmer soldiers patrolling the Preah Vihear temple after Thai troops crossed into Cambodian territories on 16th July.Bangkok - Thailand and Cambodia will hold an urgent meeting next week to defuse a row over joint claims on an ancient Hindu temple compound that has drawn hundreds of troops to both sides of the border, news reports said Thursday. An emergency meeting of the General Border

Calls for talks as Thai military deploys around Preah Vihear

Cambodian soldiers walk in the foggy morning as they patrol around Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday at disputed territory near the historic border temple despite moves to hold talks next week to defuse the flare-up in tensions, a Cambodian general said.

UN intervention sought for Preah Vihear standoff

A Thai soldier guards a Cambodian Buddhist temple near Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Thursday, July 17, 2008. Cambodia and Thailand escalated their troop buildup Thursday at disputed territory near the historic Preah Vihear border temple despite moves to hold talks next week to defuse the flare-up in tensions, a Cambodian general said.

Thailand’s Aggression Over Preah Vihear And Their Rewriting The History Of Battambang and Siem Reap

Editorial by Khmerization“By applying to list only the temple body, the Cambodian government has acknowledged the existence of a “disputed zone” and has effectively given Thailand ammunitions in which to fight for the sovereignty of that zone. The Thai incursion into Cambodia’s territories is a sheer violation of Cambodian sovereignty and territorial integrity and it is a blatant aggression and

Troop build-up at border: Incursion claims, two sides to meet Monday

Cambodian troops deployed to the Preah Vihear area.BANGKOK POST AND AGENCIESThailand and Cambodia will hold an urgent meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) on Monday to defuse the growing tension over the listing of the old Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site.The decision comes as both countries are sending troop reinforcements to the sensitive border area.Lt-Gen Sujit Sithiprapa

Preah Vihear and the Cambodia-Thailand Borderland

Ronald Bruce St John*IBRU Boundary and Security BulletinJanuary 1994Cambodia dominated large parts of Thailand from the ninth to the twelfth centuries. Four hundred years is little more than a moment in the life of a region with a recorded history of several millennia. But the remnants of Khmer rule still dot the Cambodia-Thailand borderland, especially in Esarn, as Northeast Thailand is known.

Khmer And Thai Troops Amassed At Preah Vihear

A Thai army soldier stands inside a Cambodian Buddhist temple near the Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, Wednesday, July 16, 2008. Cambodian officials said more Thai troops crossed into their country's territory Wednesday in the second day of alleged incursions amid tensions over disputed border land near the historic Preah Vihear temple. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)Cambodian

Thai Troops Invaded Preah Vihear

Thai soldiers rest near the Preah Vihear temple close to the border with Cambodia. Thailand has boosted its military forces on disputed land at the Cambodian border, after two days of simmering tensions over an ancient Hindu temple.(AFP/Str)A Cambodian soldier (front) stands next to Thai troops near the disputed Preah Vihear temple. Thailand has boosted its military forces on disputed land at the

Thailand boosts forces on border in temple feud with Cambodia

PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AFP) - Thailand has boosted its military forces on disputed land at the Cambodian border, an army official said Wednesday, after two days of simmering tensions over an ancient Hindu temple.Publicly, officials from both nations have called for talks to peacefully resolve the dispute over a 4.6-square-kilometre (1.8-square-mile) area near the 11th-century Preah Vihear temple

Thailand calls for talks to resolve Cambodia temple dispute

PHNOM PENH (AFP) — Cambodia backed off from talk of a Thai incursion Wednesday as troops from both sides held positions on the border near an ancient Hindu temple at the centre of a territorial dispute.Officials from both countries moved to resolve the disagreement peacefully a day after Cambodia said troops from Thailand had entered the country.About 200 Thai troops and 380 Cambodian soldiers

Cambodia, Thailand to solve problem of Thai troops stationed in disputed area

PHNOM PENH, July 16 (Xinhua) -- The Cambodian and Thai governments will have a top meeting to solve the matter of nearly 200 Thai troops stationed inside a Cambodian pagoda 200 meters away from the Preah Vihear Temple, a Cambodian official said here on Wednesday. The border committees of both countries will have a top meeting as soon as possible to solve the problem of Thai troops who went

Thai troops enter Cambodia in escalation of temple feud

Jonathan Manthorphe, Vancouver SunPublished: Wednesday, July 16, 2008Several dozen Thai troops crossed into neighbouring Cambodia on Tuesday as a smouldering dispute over ownership of a 900-year-old temple has been fanned into flames by political turmoil in both countries.It appears that up to 100 Thai soldiers were detained by Cambodian troops after crossing the border at the site of the Preah

Cambodia claims new Thai incursion

Thailand and Cambodia both claim land around the Preah Vihear temple [EPA]

Cambodia Says More Thai Military Forces Cross Border

By VOA News 16 July 2008 Cambodian Army soldiers guard the entrance of the Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear province, 16 Jul 2008Cambodian officials say more Thai troops have crossed the border as a standoff triggered by a long-standing dispute over an ancient temple heads into a second day Wednesday.Cambodian officials say 200 Thai soldiers

Cambodia: Thai troops still in country

By SOPHENG CHEANG – PREAH VIHEAR, Cambodia (AP) — Cambodia assembled its troops near the Thai border Wednesday in the second day of alleged incursions by Thai soldiers amid tensions over disputed border land near a historic temple.Cambodian officials said more Thai troops crossed into their country's territory Wednesday while Thai officials have denied any incursion, saying the troops were

200 Thai troops on Cambodia border in temple dispute

PHNOM PENH (AFP) — More than 200 Thai troops have assembled on the Cambodian border amid escalating tensions over an ancient temple at the centre of a territorial dispute, a Cambodian official said Wednesday.The soldiers began crossing the border on Tuesday, he said, after three Thai protesters were arrested for jumping an immigration checkpoint to reach the Preah Vihear temple.Thailand denies

Cambodian secretary of state recovering well after acid attack

PHNOM PENH, July 16 (Xinhua) -- Ngor Srun, secretary of state at the Cambodian Council of Ministers and top aid for Deputy Prime Minister Sok An, was recovering well in Thailand after the acid attack Sunday in Phnom Penh, national media said Wednesday. Although the acid hit Srun's face, his wounds were superficial and he should be able to return soon to Cambodia following medical treatment

Bun Rany wishes for better relations between Cambodia, China

PHNOM PENH, July 16 (Xinhua) -- On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Cambodian and China, Bun Rany, president of the Cambodian Red Cross and wife of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said in a recent written interview with the Xinhua News Agency and Chinese-language newspaper the Jian Hua Daily that the bilateral ties will be improved and

Cambodia bicycle taxis angered by security guards

Drivers of Cambodia's cyclos, or bicycle taxis, say security guards around city's markets are chasing them away, making it difficult for them to earn a living.The drivers have also accused the guards of seeking protection money.An industry survey shows there are more than 1,200 cyclo drivers in the capital Phnom Pehn who earn around 8,000 riel or $US2 a day.Most say they cant afford to give the

North Korean company sets up biofuel factory in Cambodia

Phnom Penh - A North Korean company said it would launch Cambodia's first biofuel factory, specializing in cassava conversion, by October, a newspaper reported Wednesday.Rasmei Kampuchea daily reported MH Bio-energy Group's director Choi Wee Sung said he had already advised Prime Minister Hun Sen of the factory's inauguration date at a site on the outskirts of the capital and hoped it would help

Temple tensions as Thai troops entered Cambodia

Written by Post Staff Tuesday, 15 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh Post Heng Chivoan A Cambodian soldier stands in front of Preah Vihear temple earlier in July. A t least 30 Thai troops who illegally entered Cambodia near Preah Vihear temple Tuesday are being held by Cambodian military, officials said, in the latest

Cambodia claims 170 Thais crossed border in dispute

A Cambodian flag flutters over a famed Preah Vihear temple on the Cambodia-Thai border in Cambodia, Preah Vihear province, about 245 kilometers (152 miles) north of Phnom Penh, June 21, 2008. Cambodia's retired king has taken a nationalistic swipe at Thailand in the controversy over a recent world heritage tag for an 11th century temple, which has sparked political tensions in the neighboring

Cambodia says further Thai troops trespass in temple feud

The ancient Hindu temple of Preah Vihear is perched on a mountaintop on the Thai-Cambodia border. Tensions flared on Cambodia's border with Thailand, as a Thai soldier was injured by a landmine and about 100 Thai troops were held near an ancient temple in a territorial dispute. (AFP/File/Tang Chhin Sothy)

Thai troops accused of entering Cambodia in dispute over temple

By Andrew Buncombe, Asia Correspondent Wednesday, 16 July 2008 The controversy surrounding an 11th-century temple on the

Thai troops cross Cambodian border as temple dispute flares

Phnom Penh July 16, 2008 -Tha Age ABOUT 40 Thai troops entered Cambodia last night in the latest flare-up of a territorial dispute over a 900-year-old Hindu temple, Cambodian officials said. The soldiers crossed the border hours after three Thai protesters were arrested for jumping an immigration checkpoint in a bid to reach the ruins of the Preah Vihear temple, said

Soldiers face off on Thai-Cambodian border

By Thomas Bell in Bangkok A border dispute over a 900-year-old temple is threatening to boil over when Thai troops allegedly mounted an incursion into Cambodian territory.The incident was sparked when three Thai protesters crossed barbed wire to enter the disputed site and were arrested by Cambodian border guards. A Cambodian official said that around 40 Thai soldiers later crossed the border.

Boonsrang urges border calm

Three Thais seized after crossing into Cambodia BANGKOK POST AND AGENCIES Supreme Commander Gen Boonsrang Niempradit has urged people protesting in Si Sa Ket

History kept at a distance

Closing the Thai entrance to Preah Vihear has proven unpopular, writes Anchalee Kongrut in Si Sa Ket The scenic Pha Mo E-Daeng, a cliff opposite the Dongrek mountains

Taxpayers fund Cambodia's corruption

The Guam Daily NewsBy A. Gaffar Peang-MethCambodia's July 27 general election, the fourth since the 1991 United Nations "Comprehensive Political Settlement of the Cambodia Conflict," is, again, a lopsided political competition for power among eleven political parties -- reduced from more than 50 earlier -- for 123 parliamentarian seats.AdvertisementThere's nothing "fair" and "equitable" about an

Police Briefly Hold Thai Temple Protesters

By Heng Reaksmey, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 15 July 2008 Cambodian soldiers have been ordered not to fire on Thai troops near Preah Vihear temple, an official said Tuesday.Cambodian border police briefly detained three Thai demonstrators at Preah Vihear temple Tuesday, a move that was followed by a crossing of Thai

Parties Remain Divided in Final Weeks

By Taing Sarada, VOA Khmer Original report from Washington 15 July 2008 Political leaders competing against the Cambodian People's Party have remained divided, competing with each other instead of unifying its voice, a leading human rights official said. The competing parties need a strong alliance in order to compete with the CPP,

Sole Monk Observer Touts 'Same Rights'

By Win Thida, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 15 July 2008 More than 20,000 Cambodians will observe the July 27 elections, along with 300 international observers. Among them will be at least one monk. His name is Huy Man Kheang. Sixty-one-years old, the venerable monk is the chief of the Tonle Neam pagoda, in Angkor Chey

Outside Parties Report Campaign Obstacles

By Mean Veasna, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 15 July 2008 [Editor's note: In the weeks leading into national polls, VOA Khmer will explore a wide number of election issues. The "Election Issues 2008" series will air stories on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by a related "Hello VOA" guest on Thursday. This is the first in

Disabled Trained to Encourage Voting

By Seng Ratana, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 15 July 2008 The UNDP is supporting the disabled in the election, fearing that in polls past they have not been encouraged to choose their representatives. Through cooperation with the Cambodian Disabled People's Organization, the UNDP provided training Tuesday to 50 disabled

Little Progress in Democracy: Rights Groups

By Taing Sarada, VOA Khmer Original report from Washington 15 July 2008 Cambodia's political system has not moved closer to true democracy, international human rights leaders and political candidates say. The Cambodian People's Party has strict control over state media, the courts, the bar association and the National Election

Thai soldiers acrossing border hit land mine in Cambodia, captain injured

The temple stands atop mountains on the Thai-Cambodian border BANGKOK, July 15 (Xinhua) -- At least one soldier of a Thai army patrol squad were injured while the team entered a disputed area near Thai-Cambodia border and hit a land mine near the controversial Preah Vihear Temple on Tuesday afternoon.Initial investigation said the captain of the squad was injured on the leg during the blast, a

Thai army enter Cambodia, Thai protesters arrested at disputed temple

About 40 Thai troops have entered Cambodia in the latest flare-up over a disputed 900-year-old temple BANGKOK (AFP) — About 40 Thai troops on Tuesday entered Cambodia in the latest flare-up of a territorial dispute over a 900-year-old Hindu temple, Cambodian officials at the border have told AFP.The military deployment comes as three Thai protesters were detained by Cambodian soldiers early on

Thai troops 'cross into Cambodia'

The temple stands atop mountains on the Thai-Cambodian borderThai troops 'cross into Cambodia'The temple stands atop mountains on the Thai-Cambodian borderAbout 40 Thai troops have crossed into Cambodian territory in the latest flare-up of a dispute over an ancient temple, Cambodian officials have said.The head of the national authority for the Preah Vihear temple said there was a stand-off, but

Cambodian and Thai troops square up over disputed temple

Thai tourists walk past a anti-landmine sign at the Preah Vihear temple in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia Ian MacKinnon in Bangkokguardian.co.uk,Tuesday July 15, 2008Tensions over a disputed border temple escalated today after a Cambodian official claimed 40 troops from neighbouring Thailand had crossed the frontier.A Thai army chief immediately denied any incursion but said its soldiers had

Cambodia says 40 Thai troops cross border in temple feud

The World Court ruled in 1962 that the Preah Vihear temple belongs to Cambodia PHNOM PENH (AFP) — Tensions flared on Cambodia's border with Thailand Tuesday, as 40 Thai troops entered their neighbour's territory in a dispute over a 900-year-old Hindu temple.Bangkok and Phnom Penh officials both said the trespass was caused by a misunderstanding after the soldiers went to pick up three Thai

Official: Thai troops enter Cambodia

UN cultural agency has granted World Heritage status to the ancient Hindu temple By KER MUNTHIT –PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — About 40 Thai troops entered Cambodian territory on Tuesday as tension escalated over disputed land around an ancient temple, a Cambodian official said.The Thai military denied any border violation, saying the troops had only deployed near the disputed area near the

US condemns killing of Cambodia journalist

The United States has condemned the killings of a Cambodian journalist and his son, warning it could have a "chilling effect" on the media ahead of general elections later this month.The US embassy in Phnom Penh says the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is ready to help Cambodian authorities investigate the drive-by shootings of Khim Sam Bo, 47, and his 19-year-old son .Cambodia's opposition

Protesters launch impeachment effort against Thai government over temple dispute

The Associated PressPublished July 15, 2008BANGKOK, Thailand: Protesters in Thailand launched impeachment proceedings against the government Tuesday for allegedly losing disputed territory to neighboring Cambodia.The protesters, led by the People's Alliance for Democracy, have staged daily demonstrations for nearly two months against Prime Minister Samak Sudaravej. They claim he is a proxy of

US boosts military ties with Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia

Vietnamese soldiers march past US and Vietnamese flags as part of a welcoming ceremony for US president George W. Bush WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States is stepping up military ties with Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia as part of a deepening relationship with Southeast Asia amid competition for influence from China, officials said.The United States and Laos, they said, plan to exchange military

Cambodia ibis sanctuary wins international wildlife award

Phnom Penh - An ibis sanctuary established in Cambodia by the Wildlife Conservation Society was awarded Wild Asia's 2007 Responsible Tourism Award, the non-profit group said in a press release Tuesday.The prize, set up by Wild Asia, an organization working for the conservation of natural areas, rewards environmental responsibility in business.The ecotourism project, located in Kulen Promtep

Victorious delegation returns home

Cambodians celebrate the decision made for Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site during a rally Monday, July 14, 2008 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The Cambodian government organized another mass rally Monday to celebrate the recent listing of the country's 11th century Hindu temple as a world cultural landmark. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)---------------------------------Touch Yuthea (Further

CPP: Sam Rainsy's Rally In Kampong Chhnang Is A Lie

The SRP election rally in Phnom Penh on 27th June, 2008.Everyday.com.khMonday 14th July, 2008Translated by KhmerizationMr Sam Rainsy, president of the Sam Rainsy Party (SRP), has led supporters in an election rally in Kampong Chhnang provincial town on 12th July with 20 vehicles driving in processions around the town. The rally processions have travelled to all the 4 districts in Kampong Chhnang

Cambodians Formally Celebrate The Listing Of Preah Vihear

A Cambodian national flag flys above the crowd during the celebration of Cambodia's 'Preah Vihear' temple enlisted as a World Heritage site during a rally Monday, July 14, 2008 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The Cambodian government organized another mass rally Monday to celebrate the recent listing of the country's 11th century Hindu temple as a world cultural landmark. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

Cambodia holds big concert to hail Preah Vihear temple as world heritage

Spectators hold Cambodian national flags and portraits of Prime Minister Hun Sen during celebrations at the national stadium after the Preah Vihear temple was announced as a World Heritage site in Phnom Penh July 14, 2008. The Cambodian government organized another mass rally on Monday to celebrate the recent listing of the country's 11th century Hindu temple as a world cultural landmark, an

Promoting Cambodian Journalism

By Voanews13th July 2008Promoting Cambodian Journalism - Download (MP3) Promoting Cambodian Journalism - Listen to (MP3) Five Cambodian journalists were recently honored by their professional colleagues for outstanding investigative reporting. The five top winners of the Club of Cambodian Journalists’ “Investigative Journalism Awards

Cambodia: Indian inertia versus growing Chinese presence

By Pranav Kumar India PostWorking towards greater economic cooperation forms an important part of India's Look East Policy. In the last two decades India's bilateral trade and investment with this region has increased significantly. However, the increase remains asymmetrical. The case of Cambodia, for example, shows that India's interaction with the country is far below potential. In

'Selective' Coverage After Murders: Reporter

By Mean Veasna, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 14 July 2008 Moneaksekar Khmer, one of only two opposition newspapers remaining in Cambodia, will be selective in subsequent stories, a staff reporter said. The murders of an opposition journalist and his son in Phnom Penh Friday night have sent a ripple of self-censorship

CPP Official in Thailand After Acid Attack

By Seng Ratana, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 14 July 2008 A government official injured in an acid attack in Phnom Penh Sunday was sent for treatment in Thailand, but his condition is not critical, a top police official said Monday. Ngor Srun, a Cambodian People's Party secretary of state for the Council of Ministers (who

US-Cambodians Seek Solutions for Dropouts

By Nuch Sarita, VOA Khmer Original report from Washington 14 July 2008 Khmer audio aired 11 July 2008 (2.39 MB) - Download (MP3) Khmer audio aired 11 July 2008 (2.39 MB) - Listen (MP3) Var Sereyvuth, left, a liaison of the Community and Family Engagement Network, and Nhim Setha,

10,000 Cambodians rally to celebrate ancient temple's World Heritage status

Cambodians celebrate the listing of Preah Vihear on 8th July, 2008.The Associated PressPublished: July 14, 2008PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: Cambodians celebrated the U.N.'s listing of an 11th-century Hindu temple as a world cultural landmark with a mass rally, fireworks and plenty of nationalist songs Monday.A crowd estimated by authorities at 10,000 — some wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with the

Thai PM may face treason charge over Cambodia temple deal

Prince Damrong of Thailand visited Preah Vihear in 1929 and he was received by the colonial French officials.BANGKOK (AFP) — Anti-government activists Monday urged Thailand's top anti-corruption watchdog to consider treason charges against the prime minister for backing a deal with Cambodia on a disputed Hindu temple.The Constitutional Court last week ruled that Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej

Foes want Thai govt and Thaksin charged in temple row

The 11th century Preah Vihear temple is seen near the Thai border in Preah Vihear province, 543 km (337 miles) north of Phnom Penh, in this June 21, 2008 file photo. REUTERS/Pok ChadaraBy Pracha Hariraksapitak BANGKOK (Reuters) - Protesters marched on the offices of Thailand's graftbusting agency on Monday to press for criminal charges against the government for its role in a dispute over

Military urges reversal of Cambodia support

The Foreign Ministry should inform Cambodia and all concerned countries and organisations that Thailand is revoking the joint communique issued to support Cambodia's bid to register the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage Site, Supreme Commander Boonsang Niempradit said.Speaking after a seminar with with academics and others with an interest in the temple dispute, Gen Boonsang said measures

Cambodian official attacked with acid

From correspondents in Phnom PenhJuly 14, 2008 A SENIOR Cambodian government official has been attacked with acid, as the country gears up for a general election in two weeks. Ngor Srun, secretary of state for the cabinet's office, was attacked yesterday at a garage in Phnom Penh, where he

Millennium and Royal to launch $2 billion project in Cambodia

Kith Meng, the owner of Royal Group who was awarded the Koh Rong concessions.Royal Group and Millennium Group are currently looking for investors for a new resort on an island off the East Coast of Cambodia which could eventuate to a US$2 billion project.The new project revealed by Bloomberg, finds that the partners are looking to launch a new island resort on Koh Rong to include a new airport,

Green Zoon takes root to Siem Reap, Cambodia

A joint German and Cambodian regional economic development program to develop an agricultural 'green zone' around Siem Reap at a cost of about $20 million is gaining momentum, with five districts selected for the project's first phase. Four German organizations - GTZ, DED, InWent, and KFW - have guaranteed 12 million euros for the project, and the Cambodian government has

Major opposition party expects to win half votes in general election of Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The major opposition Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) expects to win over 50 percent of the votes in the July 27 general election, English-Khmer language newspaper the Mekong Times said Monday. (For The Mekong Times report click here).SRP "is to win 62 (out of the 123 seats at the National Assembly) in the election" and will make gains particularly in Phnom Penh and Kampong

Chea Sim's son-in-law attacked by acid

Cambodian secretary of state attacked by acid PHNOM PENH, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Ngor Srun, secretary of state at the Cambodian Council of Ministers and top aid for Deputy Prime Minister Sok An, was the victim of an acid attack Sunday morning and now in Thailand for further medical care, said police source here Monday. The attack occurred in downtown Phnom Penh, as Srun ended his participation

Singapore Petroleum begins drilling well off Cambodia

Phnom Penh, Jul 12, 2008 (Asia Pulse Data Source via COMTEX) -- SGPCF | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- Singapore Petroleum Company Ltd (SPC) has begun oil and gas exploration activities offshore Cambodia, according to local media.The well is the first in Block B, about 160 km southwest of Sihanoukville. Drilling to test the hydrocarbon potential is expected to take about 15 days since July

Sam Rainsy Party predicts victory in upcoming election

The Sam Rainsy Party election campaign on June 26th, 2008.By Chun SophalThe Mekong TimesThe Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) has announced that it expects to win over 50 percent of the votes in the July 27 general election, claiming that victory in the poll has been assured by the electorate’s disillusionment with the present government.“People can see the government’s powerlessness to prevent corruption

Slain reporter, son cremated

Bodies of veteran journalist Khim Sambo and his son are seen during a mourning ceremony at Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, July 12, 2008. Sambo and his son were shot dead Friday on the street of Phnom Penh. He used to contribute articles under a pseudonym to the Khmer Conscience News, a Cambodian-language newspaper affiliated with major opposition party. (Xinhua/Xia Lin)By Eath DaravuthThe

King Father Supports A Plan To Build A Hospital Near The Preah Vihear Temple

By Sok SereyRadio Free Asia11th July 2008Translated by KhmerizationEx-King Sihanouk (pictured) has given his support to the Khmer Civilisation Foundation to build a small hospital to provide free treatment to the guards and the people living in the vicinity of the Preah Vihear temple complex.Mr Moeung Son, president of the Khmer Civilisation Foundation, who has led an 8-member delegation to have

Thai economy hit by political turmoil, Cabinet reshuffle planned

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej in Thailand's parliament in Bangkok in late June. Thailand's renewed political turmoil, with three top officials forced from office last week, is hurting an economy already hit by soaring inflation and weak investment. (AFP/File/Pornchai Kittiwongsakul)by Jutarat Tongpiam Sun Jul 13, 2008BANGKOK (AFP) - Thailand's

BKK gains benefits from deal with Phnom Penh over Preah Vihear Temple

By Supalak Ganjanakhundee The Nation Thailand has not lost anything but gained a lot of benefits from the deal with Cambodia over the World Heritage listing of Preah Vihear Temple. The Foreign Ministry

Thai PM plans major cabinet reshuffle

Agence France-PresseFirst Posted 07/13/2008BANGKOK--Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej (pictured) announced plans Sunday for a major cabinet reshuffle following a series of legal battles that forced three of his ministers out of office.The new cabinet line-up will be announced later this month, Samak said, implying that he might wait for a decision in late July in yet another court case that

Thailand may seek extradition to arrest ex-deputy interior minister

BANGKOK, July 11 (TNA) - Thailand is considering the possibility that a former cabinet minister, avoiding the serving of an arrest warrent, may be hiding out in a Cambodian casino.The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) on Friday said that if there is evidence that former deputy interior minister Vatana Asavahame is in Cambodia, the court will seek extradition through the Cambodian government.

Twin baby joy for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

The first picture of Angelina Jolie's twins. She named her twins Knox Leon and Vivienne MarchelineLOS ANGELES (AFP) — Iconic superstars, high-profile humanitarians and now proud parents of six children: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's romance could only have been forged in Hollywood.The birth of Pitt and Jolie's twins -- a boy and a girl -- at a hospital in the south of France late Saturday is the

Widow urges arrest of killers of Cambodian opposition journalist

The bodies of Khim Sambo and his son are on display in Wat Svay Dangkum pagoda on 12 Jule 2008. (Photo: Sophorn, RFA)The Associated PressPublished: July 13, 2008PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: The widow of a slain Cambodian opposition journalist urged officials Sunday to find his killers as she cremated his body and that of her son.Khem Sambo, 47, and his 21-year-old son died after they were gunned down in

Cambodian garment workers worry about future prospects

Cambodian garment workers at a factory in Phnom PenhPHNOM PENH (AFP) — Sath Vanny sits anxiously at the door to her tiny one-room hut in the factory district of Cambodia's capital.She left her hometown in the southern province of Takeo seven years ago to work at a women's shirt factory, sending most of her earnings back to help the family farm.But a slowdown in orders has the 25-year-old worried

Cambodia cannot allow itself to be insulted by the Thai people

Mediawatch,your comments below are very interesting. Like you, I believe that the Thai oppositions want to use Preah Vihear's issue to advance their interests in bringing down the Samak government. It is a dangerous game on the part of the Thai oppositions to use Preah Vihear to settle the Thai internal squabbling. Cambodian has been very patient so far and I hope after the election, Mr. Hun Sen

Samak says any government would have had to endorse Cambodia's Preah Vihear registration

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej (pictured) said Sunday that any government would have had done the same thing with what his administration has done in endorsing Cambodia's registration of Preah Vihear a world heritage site.He said had the post-coup interim government remained in office, it would have done the same thing with what his government had done regarding the Preah Vihear listing.Speaking

Thais stage protest at border area as tensions rise

Thai protesters protesting in front of Preah Vihear temple in late June.Group says it will 'reclaim' territorySunday July 13, 2008 By Anchalee KongrutBangkok PostNationalistic protesters at the Preah Vihear ruins managed to place a small Thai pavilion and Thai flag next to the 4.6-square-kilometre overlapping area on the Thai-Cambodia border yesterday. The group of 100 protesters carried a small

Party profiles: An election rundown

Written by Meas Sokchea and Sebastian Strangio Friday, 11 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh Post Eleven political parties will contest this month’s general election. The Post’s Meas Sokchea and Sebastian Strangio take a look at party structures and policies as Cambodians weigh their options ahead of national polls on July 27.

Comment: Same ol' dark arts of democracy

Written by Porter Barron and Thet Sambath Friday, 11 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh PostLike the legless, levitating vampires who haunt the countryside with fangs bared and green viscera trailing, legions of bogeymen have haunted Cambodia’s political landscape since its competing leaders accepted their bids to the democracy dance in 1991.But more so than the bloodsucking aps, who spawned an

New government appointments

Written by The Phnom Penh Post Friday, 11 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh Post Since the appointments published in the June 27, 2008 issue of the Phnom Penh Post, the followingadditional appointments have been made public.H.E. Neth Savoeun as Personal Advisor to Samdech Akkak Maha Senapadei Dekchor Hun Sen, the Prime Minister,

Sam Rainsy presses case against FM

Hor Namhong (L) and Sam Rainsy (R).Written by Chhay Channyda and Sebastian Strangio Friday, 11 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh PostSam Rainsy this week handed additional evidence over to the courts which he says implicates Foreign Minister Hor Namhong in Khmer Rouge atrocities amid a growing legal battle that could see the opposition lawmaker stripped of his parliamentary immunity and

Preah Vihear card in play following UNESCO listing

Written by Kay Kimsong and Thet Sambath Friday, 11 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh Post VANDY RATTANA Monks in Phnom Penh celebrate Preah Vihear’s inscription as a World Heritage Site, July 9. Since Monday’s decision by UNESCO to list Preah Vihear temple as a Cambodian World Heritage Site, the Kingdom’s nationalist

Cambodia may hold key to malaria cure

Written by Sebastian Strangio and Chann Chamroeun Friday, 11 July 2008Courtesy of Phnom Penh PostCambodia has the potential to emerge as a regional center for anti-malarial research, say scientists and traditional medicine researchers, adding that the continuing but low-level prevalence of the disease in the Kingdom gives them an ideal testing ground for new drugs and preventative measures.“

Democrats call for Cambodia talks on temple

The government should meet with Cambodian officials to settle a territorial dispute over the Preah Vihear temple, opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva (pictured left) said on Saturday. The Democrat party leader said officials from the two countries should meet to ensure a fair resolution to the boundary dispute, the Thai News Agency reported. Cambodia has claimed ownership of the land around the

Cambodian Journalist Shot Dead

By Rory Byrne Phnom Penh 12 July 2008 Byrne report - Download (MP3) Byrne report - Listen (MP3) A prominent Cambodian journalist who worked for a pro-opposition newspaper was shot dead Friday along with his son in the capital Phnom Penh. Human rights groups say that the attack is meant to

Tourism to Cambodia has increased more than 14 percent..........

(live-PR.com) - Tourism to Cambodia has increased more than 14 percent in the year to May from the same period in 2007.The Ministry of Tourism said Cambodia was on track to attract 2.3 million visitors this year, adding that political stability and infrastructure improvements had increased the number of tourist arrivals to the country. Some $1.64 billion is expected to be generated in 2008 from

The Hor Namhong’s Conspiracy: Is It A Contempt Of Court Or A Travesty Of Justice?

Read other Khmerization’s editorials regarding Hor Namhong vs. Sam RainsyEditorial by Khmerization“The refusal of the Phnom Penh Court to receive Mr. Sam Rainsy’s evidence to refute defamation suit brought by Foreign Minister Hor Namhong has undeniably proven that the Cambodian courts are incapable of delivering justice to the people of Cambodia. The Phnom Penh Court has shown its sheer

The assassination of Mr Khim Sambor is a political threat

Phnom Penh, 12 July 2008 After receiving the news that Mr Khim Sambor, a journalist for the Moneaksekar Khmer newspaper, and his son were tragically shot to death on the afternoon of 11 July 2008, the Sam Rainsy Party members of Parliament and officials of the SRP express grief and pity for their unfortunate deaths. When one who dares to write or argue against those with absolute

Chum Mei: My Privilege and Great Honor

By Mediawatch-NewstopiaIt is my privilege and great honor to have met and known Om Mei [Om is uncle in Khmer, as many young and old people was living in the area would address him], a moderate and humble person with a good sense of humor, having great personality, down to earth guy with soft spoken voice and smile are his trade mark. Each time we met and as usual Om Mei removed his cap, leaning

Sam Rainsy Party's Election Campaign

Cambodians are pictured attending opposition Sam Rainsy's party rally in Phnom Penh, on June 26. A Cambodian journalist who worked for a newspaper allied to Sam Rainsy, and his son were shot dead as they left a sports stadium in the capital Phnom Penh, according to police statement. (AFP/File/Tang Chhin Sothy)

Vatana said to be hiding in Poi Pet

Veteran politician Vatana Asavahame, wanted for jumping bail in a corruption case, was found hiding in his casino in Cambodia's Poi Pet border town, police said yesterday. Deputy national police chief Jongrak Juthanont quoted a report from Sa Kaeo police chief Pol Col Itthipol Piriyaphinyo as saying that a cousin of Mr Vatana had crossed the border from the province to see him at the Poi Pet

Thai tourists cancel Cambodia trips over security fears

Tourists walk past an Angkor Wat temple, in Siem Reap province of Cambodia BANGKOK (AFP) — About a thousand Thais have cancelled visits to Cambodia's famous Angkor Wat ruins since an ownership dispute erupted between the two neighbours over another temple, a tourism chief said Saturday.The mass cancellations began last week at the height of a disagreement over the 11th century Preah Vihear temple

Slain Cambodian journalist's son dies in hospital

A picture of Khim Sambor, shot dead on 11th July.The Earth TimesPhnom Penh - The teenage son of a slain Cambodian opposition party journalist has died in hospital from gunshot wounds, police said Saturday, after he and his father were attacked in an apparent assassination attempt just weeks before national elections. Khim Sambo, 47, a senior scribe for the Khmer-language Moneakseka Khmer daily,

Kong Korm Said SRP Will Win Absolute Majority

Everyday.com.khTranslated by KhmerizationMr. Kong Korm (pictured), vice-president of the Sam Rainsy Party (SRP), said proudly and confidently that the SRP will win absolute majority in the upcoming election to be held on 27th July.Mr. Kong Korm, who is also a senator from the SRP said, in a statement posted on the Sam Rainsy Party website on 9th July, that he and the majority of the people

Election Campaign In Cambodia

Sam Rainsy, leader of Cambodia's opposition Sam Rainsy Party, speaks during a campaign rally in Kandal province, 50 km (31 miles) west of Phnom Penh July 11, 2008. Cambodia is due to hold a general election on July 27. REUTERS/Chor Sokunthea (CAMBODIA)SRP parade in Taing Kok market, Baray district, Kampong Thom province (All photos: SRP)Sam Rainsy

Temple tree

The Indian ExpressSaturday, July 12, 2008 The 800-year-old Ta Prohm shrine in Cambodia - better known as temple of trees - will soon be restored and conserved with the help of Dehradun-based Forest Research Institute (FRI). A team, led by FRI director Dr S S Negi and senior scientist Dr Sas Biswas, will supervise the entire process of conserving and restoring the temple. Besides being as old as

Cambodia journalist shot dead - police

PHNOM PENH, July 11 (Reuters) - A Cambodian journalist working for an opposition newspaper was shot dead on Friday by unknown gunmen who fired on the victim and his son, police said.Khim Sam Bo, 47, was shot twice and his 19-year-old son was seriously wounded in the capital Phnom Penh, as they left a sports stadium, police chief G. Touch Naruth said."We do not know the motive for the killing yet.

Vatana fled to Cambodia, police say

Veteran politician Vatana Asavahame, wanted for jumping bail in a corruption case, was found hiding in his casino in Cambodia's Poi Pet border town, police said yesterday. Deputy national police chief Jongrak Juthanont quoted a report from Sa Kaeo police chief Pol Col Itthipol Piriyaphinyo as saying that a cousin of Mr Vatana had crossed the border from the province to see him at the Poi Pet

CPP Files Complaint Over Royal Portraits

By Chiep Mony, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 11 July 2008 CPP officials claim the hanging of royal portraits outside election party offices, like these at the Ministry of Defense in 2004, is a breach of campaign regulations.Cambodian People's Party district political officials issued a campaign complaint Tuesday over the

'A Lot,' But Not Enough Rural Help: Minister

By Sok Khemara, VOA Khmer Washington 11 July 2008 The government has introduced a number of projects into rural areas, a top official says.Through work by the government and other non-governmental agencies, Cambodia's rural areas are developing, but much is left to be done, a minister said Thursday. "I realize we have borrowed money

1 Dead, 3 Hurt in Apparent Food Poisoning

By Heng Reaksmey, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 11 July 2008 A five-year-old boy died and three others were sickened in a possible case of food poisoning in Preah Vihear province, health officials said Friday. Thouern Tiep, 5, died after he was taken to the commune health center with two brothers and an aunt Thursday

Khieu Samphan Awaits Lawyer Confirmation

By Mean Veasna, VOA Khmer Original report from Phnom Penh 11 July 2008 Khieu SamphanJailed Khmer Rouge president Khieu Samphan has selected a replacement defense lawyer from two likely candidates, but neither had confirmed a position Friday. A new candidate is likely to be approved by next week, tribunal officials said. Khieu

Thai anti-gov't group moves to impeach cabinet over Cambodian temple issue

BANGKOK, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's civil political coalition People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) continued their campaign to bring down the government led by Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej (pictured), moving to impeach the cabinet on Friday over the PreahVihear Temple issue. PAD leaders Pipop Thongchai, Somsak Kosaisook and Suriyasai Katasila on Friday submitted a petition with Senate

Cambodia's former king denounces Thai claims to 11th century temple as 'absolutely false'

Ex-King SihanoukThe Associated PressPublished: July 11, 2008PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: Cambodia's former king dismissed any Thai claim to an 11th century temple on the border as baseless, weighing in on a dispute that has soured relations between the neighbors and fueled anti-government protests in Thailand.Preah Vihear temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site this week, reopening a

Germany pledges US$2.4 million for cash-strapped Cambodian genocide tribunal

The Associated PressPublished: July 11, 2008PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: The German government Friday pledged €1.5 million (US$2.4 million) to Cambodia's cash-strapped tribunal, which is charged with prosecuting former Khmer Rouge leaders with war crimes and crimes against humanity.The main aim of the funds will be to allow victims of the communist dictatorship "to play a more prominent role in the

Travel Postcard: 48 hours in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Tourists take photos of the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Siem Reap on March 1, 2007. REUTERS/Chor SokuntheaSIEM REAP, Cambodia (Reuters Life!) - Got 48 hours to explore the ruins of the ancient Angkor empire? Reuters correspondents with local knowledge help visitors make the most of the temples and Siem Reap, the tourist town booming in the shadow of Angkor Wat. FRIDAY 6 p.m. - Relax on

Battle over land in Cambodia

Ratanakiri province, Cambodia. Photo © 11 July 08 - In thick forest in the north-east Cambodian province of Ratanakiri, a team of lawyers uses a global positioning satellite handset to mark the location of traditional spirit forests and gravesites belonging to local Jarai villagers. Andrew Nette/Newsmekong*/IPS - The stark contrast between old and

Leopard Capital Competes to Invest in Cambodia Acleda Bank

Bloomberg - Leopard Capital, which is setting up a $100 million private-equity fund to invest in Cambodia, said it’s competing to buy a stake in Acleda Bank Plc, the largest Cambodian bank.“It’s the best-run bank, it’s clean and it has very good margins,” Thomas Hugger, executive director at Leopard Capital, said in an interview in Singapore today.Leopard Capital is vying with other foreign

Preah Vihear: A Pyrrhic Victory For Cambodia?

Editorial by Khmerization“While I am exuberant with the victory over Thailand on the listing of the Preah Vihear temple on the World Heritage List, I, like many of my compatriots, felt somewhat sad. I am sad because I felt that it is a Pyrrhic victory due to the fact that there is a possibility that Cambodia might lose the ownership of the 4.6 square kilometres to Thailand.” I would like to begin

Costs and distances may keep workers from polls say unions

Chea Mony addressed striking workers.By Chun SophalThe Mekong timesThe Free Trade Union of Workers of the Kingdom of Cambodia (FTUWKC), which has members in over 180 garment factories nationwide, is predicting that only about 200,000 workers will vote in the July 27 national election.“The recent dramatically high inflation is one of the main factors that cause only a small number of workers to be