Border Discussions Proposed for Preah Vihear Temple Amidst Conflicts

via Khmer Times, 19 December 2023: Thai Members of Parliament have petitioned Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for discussions with Cambodia regarding access to the Preah Vihear Temple, a site of historical contention located on the Thailand-Cambodia border. Amidst ongoing border conflicts and the pandemic-induced closure of the temple, the petition aims to facilitate tourism and enhance bilateral relations, drawing on the countries’ past cooperative efforts. The Si Sa Ket provincial administration has also engaged in talks about temporarily opening a border stretch, with the outcomes yet to be presented to the government.

Seven Members of Parliament (MPs) from Thailand’s northeastern province have submitted a petition to Prime Minister SretthaThavisin, urging him to engage in talks with the Cambodian government regarding travel to the Preah Vihear Temple located on the Thailand border.

The petition comes amidst border conflicts and the Covid-19 pandemic, which has resulted in the closure of the temple to visitors. Cambodia has previously allowed visa-free day trips to the temple for Thai nationals.

Source: Thai MPs petition for border discussions with Cambodia on Preah Vihear temple access – Khmer Times