Thursday, March 25, 2010
Cambodia claims killing 88 Thais during 2008-9
Wednesday March 24, 2010
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) - Cambodia claimed Wednesday that its forces killed scores of Thai soldiers in clashes during 2008-9 around a disputed ancient temple along the frontier, but Thailand said only two or three of its troops had died.
Neither claim could be verified, nor was it clear why Cambodia chose to announce the casualty figures at this time amid continuing tension in relations.
Gen. Chea Tara, who commands Cambodian forces in the disputed area, said the situation at the disputed border near the Preah Vihear temple was now quiet but that soldiers of both sides remain on high alert.
"Now Cambodia has enough weapons and forces to protect its territory. You (Thais) don't want to be fighting with us," the general told hundreds of Cambodian government officials and lawmakers.
"We also have enough reserve forces and weapons to help the front line if needed."
The long-running dispute over Preah Vihear heated up in July 2008 when UNESCO, the U.N. cultural agency, approved Cambodia's bid to have the 11th century temple named a World Heritage site.
Thailand initially supported the bid but then reneged after the move sparked outrage and protests by Thai nationalists.
Neither claim could be verified, nor was it clear why Cambodia chose to announce the casualty figures at this time amid continuing tension in relations.
Gen. Chea Tara, who commands Cambodian forces in the disputed area, said the situation at the disputed border near the Preah Vihear temple was now quiet but that soldiers of both sides remain on high alert.
"Now Cambodia has enough weapons and forces to protect its territory. You (Thais) don't want to be fighting with us," the general told hundreds of Cambodian government officials and lawmakers.
"We also have enough reserve forces and weapons to help the front line if needed."
The long-running dispute over Preah Vihear heated up in July 2008 when UNESCO, the U.N. cultural agency, approved Cambodia's bid to have the 11th century temple named a World Heritage site.
Thailand initially supported the bid but then reneged after the move sparked outrage and protests by Thai nationalists.
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