BANGKOK, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said that Thailand is now waiting for an 'appropriate time' to hold talks with its neighbouring Cambodia over the Preah Vihear temple dispute, Thai News Agency said Thursday.
"The talks could be held later when both nations are more calm, and that is why Thailand did not reserve the right to begin talks," he said when asked to comment on Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's statement on Wednesday.
Abhisit said he was ready to assign his deputy Suthep Thaugsuban to hold talks with Cambodia on the Preah Vihear dispute if the Khmer leadership gives a positive signal for negotiation.
Tension between Thailand and Cambodia rose after the Thai government's delegation objected to Cambodia's unilateral management plan of the ancient temple as the two neighbours could find no common ground to settle the disputed 4.6 sq km of land adjacent to the temple which was granted world heritage status in 2008.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) through its World Heritage Commission (WHC) consequently last week postponed its discussion of the plan until next year when it meets in Bahrain.
On another issue, Suthep urged civil groups to refrain from rallying under a state of emergency.
Following the planned rally of activist groups at Government House led by Veera Somkwamkid against the Thai government's stance on the issue, Suthep stated that the government is now working to its best ability to protect Thailand's national interest.
He said the Cabinet has already appointed Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suwit Khunkitti to form a committee to prepare information to argue against Cambodia's attempt to propose a temple management plan.
Suthep urged the activists to hear the correct information on the dispute, while warning those who plan demonstrations at Government House that the State of Emergency is still in force in the capital and that the gathering is considered as violating the law.
He urged the activists to send their representatives to submit their complaint letter to him or to the premier and asked them to bear in mind the law and order of the country.
"Any group who plans to gather to block Government House and stay overnight there is definitely considered violating the law. Please do not come as it will cause more problems," said Suthep.
"I'm not challenging them, but just ask for cooperation."
Meanwhile, on Thursday, Veera said his network comprised of 52 civil groups will rally in Si Sa Ket province bordering Cambodia on Saturday, assserting the move is about the protection of national sovereignty, not politically motivated colour-clad reasoning.
Veera said the government has ignored the problem, as seen from the mistake that the previous government signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cambodia in 2000.
If negotiation between Suthep and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen were held, Veera said it will be mainly for [Suthep's] personal benefit rather than national interest.
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