PM reasserts border terms

Govt preparing reply to Trump's letter

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA PORAMET TANGSATHAPORN

The withdrawal of Cambodia's heavy weapons and civilians from disputed areas has been set as among the key conditions by Thailand in response to a letter from US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul says.

Speaking during his visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to deliver policy guidance yesterday, Mr Anutin said the meeting was held to prepare for upcoming negotiations with the Cambodian side, as well as to formulate a response to Mr Trump's letter addressed to him.

Mr Anutin said Mr Trump sent him a letter saying he wanted to see the country and neighbouring Cambodia resolve simmering border tensions.

The remark came a day after Mr Anutin appeared to brush off a continued role for Mr Trump - who is chasing a Nobel Peace Prize - in any further negotiations between the two nations aimed at solving their border dispute.

Mr Anutin expressed appreciation for the goodwill shown by the US president, who conveyed his desire to see peace prevail in the region, particularly in relation to the ongoing Thailand-Cambodia border dispute.

MoU referendum plans to face review

The government will next week review procedures for holding a referendum on whether to cancel the Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed with Cambodia in 2000 and 2001, to ensure the public is fully informed, Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow told parliament.

During a parliamentary session yesterday, Natthaphong Rueng-panyawut, leader of the opposition People's Party, questioned the government's intentions and process in seeking a referendum on revoking the MoUs covering land and maritime border demarcation.