SURIN, 2 May 2011 – Surin Governor Serm Chainarong has indicated that the recent cross-border skirmishes have resulted in an economic loss, worth over 50 million THB, on the Thai-Cambodian trade while expecting Chong Chom checkpoint to be reopened soon.
Speaking of the overall situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, Mr Serm confirmed that the tension had already subsided in the wake of sporadic fighting between the troops of both sides.
He said all the villagers sheltered at temporary camps had been allowed to return home and assured that Chong Chom border checkpoint, which had been closed since violence erupted on 22 April, would be reopened as soon as safety was confirmed by the Second Army Area Commander.
After the checkpoint closure announcement was made, Cambodian traders had to pack up their goods and head back to their country. The local trade has been left quiet while an income loss to the tune of 5 million THB per day, or over 50 million THB in total, has been incurred.
