Thailand/Cambodia

Border troop positions disputed by both countries

Article published on the 2008-10-14 Latest update 2008-10-17 09:50 TU

Cambodian troops patrol near Preah Vihear temple
(Credit: Reuters)

Cambodia and Thailand continued their war of words over a disputed border area on Tuesday as Cambodian officials said Thai troops had left the site of an ancient Khmer temple, while Bangkok denied the claims. Cambodia had earlier told Thailand to withdraw or face a "large-scale armed conflict".

"All 80 troops will remain in the disputed area because Thailand has overseen that area for 20 to 30 years...and 20 of them are mine clearance workers," said Thai Foreign Minister Sompong Amornviwat. He added that Thai troops have not moved on to any Cambodian territory.

Cambodian Brigadier General Yim Pim refuted these claims, saying that Thai troops had withdrawn that morning after commanders from both sides held talks.

"There is no more confrontation now. The situation is eased now, but we are still on high alert," said the General.

The conflict flared in July after UN cultural agency UNESCO awarded World Heritage status to the Preah Vihear temple.