BANGKOK, July 30 — Visiting Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Banh said the Cambodian government understands the political and related situations in Thailand and is ready to foster bilateral cooperation in all areas, including preparation for their joining the ASEAN Community in 2015.
Gen Bahn and his delegation, who were on a two-day visit to Thailand on Monday and Tuesday to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation, called upon Gen Pratyuth Chan-ocha, Thai Army Chief and head of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) at the Royal Thai Army Headquarters yesterday.
During their meeting, Gen Prayuth explained to the Cambodian defense minister the Peace and Order Council’s operations to solve the country’s political impasse and to reduce conflict among rival parties since their May 22 military takeover.
Gen Prayuth said the NCPO was also carrying out plans to improve border areas to ensure the safety of people from both countries and to promote border trade and tourism with Cambodia.
He said the Peace and Order Council planned to send representatives from Thai security agencies for a formal visit to Cambodia soon.
Gen Banh, for his part, said the Cambodian government understood the NCPO’s actions and the need for the military council to step in to solve the country’s problems.
He gave assurances that Cambodia would not allow any party to use its territory to stage any movement or action against the NCPO.
The Cambodian defense minister said his government would invite the NCPT Chief Prayuth to visit Phnom Penh when the Thai situation returns to normal.
