DEFENCE Minister Phumthan Wechayachai said today (Nov. 26) tension at the Thai-Myanmar border in Pai district of Mae Hong Son after the Thai army held talks with United Wa State Army (UWSA) on withdrawing from this zone stemmed from unclear borderline with this problem having lingered for a long time, Naewna newspaper said.
He added that there should not be any problems and the Thai army will push UWSA forces out of the boundary Thailand has set but both sides are currently holding their positions.
Questioned on UWSA insisting that this zone belonged to them and that they would not leave, Phumtham said this issue is not just being tackled militarily with talks too being held by army officers.
Asked if this would lead to a conflict, the minister said this was unlikely as discussions are being held and compromise would be reached.
Questioned about UWSA having sent in more troops as well as 81mm and 120mm howitzers to this zone, Phumtham said both sides have weapons with the Thai side too having set up its own arms but this did not arise from the tension of fighting possibly breaking out with the Third Army taking care of the situation and this morning having reported to him.
Phumtham also mentioned that Laos had agreed to set up a committee to resolve border issues between the two countries during the Asean Defence Ministers Meeting held there last week, However while Thailand had previously protested to Myanmar the Myanmar authorities said they could not do anything as yet because of their internal problems.
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Top and Front Page: Defence Minister Phumthan Wechayachai. Photos: Thai Rath
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