Thailand and Cambodia have pledged to move forward to promote border trade despite some occasional disputes, but the proposal for a joint tourism project at the Preah Vihear temple has not yet been discussed, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said yesterday.
Gen Prayut told a press conference after returning from Cambodia that he had discussed various issues with Prime Minister Hun Sen, especially economic cooperation, along the border in particular.
He said Thailand and Cambodia will upgrade four border checkpoints from temporary to permanent passes to bolster border trade.
One temporary checkpoint is located at Arn Ma pass in Nam Yuen district in Ubon Ratchathani province, which is opposite Preah Vihear province of Cambodia.
The others are Ban Khao Din in Aranyaprathet district of Sa Kaeo bordering Battambang, Ban Tha Sen in Muang district in Trat opposite Pursat of Cambodia and Sai Taku pass in Ban Kruat district of Buri Ram bordering Oddar Meanchey.
However, Gen Prayut did not say when the four checkpoints will be declared permanent.
The plan is in line with the government's policy to boost border trade with neighbouring countries.
Thai trade with Cambodia passes mainly through the checkpoint separating Aranyaprathet district in Sa Kaeo and Poipet of Cambodia.
Gen Prayut said he did not raise the issue of the Preah Vihear temple with his counterpart, saying any issue that could lead to conflict will not be discussed at present.
If anyone wants to visit the temple, they can enter from the Cambodian side, he said.
Before ending his trip, Gen Prayut held a lunch meeting with Team Thailand officials, a Thai delegation based in Cambodia, and Thai businessmen whom he said are vital in promoting the Thai-Cambodian economic partnership.
Political stability and setting a clear path for the country to follow to move forward were among the most important factors to help build trust and confidence as Thailand cannot stand alone in this region, according to the premier.