BANGKOK, 12 November 2013 Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Monday indicated that several points in the International Court of Justice verdict on the Thai-Cambodian dispute over the 4.6 square kilometers area around Phra Viharn temple were beneficial for Thailand.
According to Ms. Yingluck, in her address to the nation after the ICJ released its verdict, the Thai government views that the ruling emphasized the importance of the two nations holding discussions over the dispute. She added that importantly, the World Court acknowledged Thailand’s arguments and adhered to its 1962 ruling, and did not rule over the demarcation issue. She added this meant the court did not acknowledge Cambodia’s claim over the 4.6 square kilometers area, and also did not bind Thailand to the 1:200,000 map.
The court also suggested that Thailand and Cambodia jointly conserve and develop the Phra Viharn Temple as it was a world heritage site.
Ms. Yingluck told the nation that the government would protect the benefit of the country and maintain sovereignty. Future negotiations with Cambodia would adhere to legal procedures as well as the Thai charter.
