Thailand and Laos have agreed that the issue of resettling Hmong refugees will be handled by the defence ministries of the two nations, Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said. Mr Noppadon, who has just returned from a two-day visit to Laos, said he discussed the issue with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Thongloun Sisulid and Lao Prime Minister Bounsorn Budpawan.

 

It was a sensitive matter, he said.

 

Both sides agreed to ask the General Border Committee (GBC) under the defence ministers to deal with the issue, he said, adding that the future of Hmong refugees affected national security.

 

''I think this issue can be settled as Laos is ready to receive them back but both sides should discuss in detail whether they should go to a third country or return to Laos or let other countries help them,'' Mr Noppadon said during his visit to Laos on Friday.

 

Hmong from Laos are living in Nong Khai and Phetchabun province.

 

About 1,800 took refuge in a makeshift camp in Ban Huay Nam Khao in Phetchabun in late 2004.

 

Thailand plans to complete the screening process in the camp this month, said Mr Noppadon.

 

He conceded the planned repatriation of 156 Hmong who are in detention cells in Nong Khai province faces difficulties.

 

''The Lao prime minister is quite flexible on the issue and I hope we can negotiate with our neighbours to seek an appropriate way out,'' said Mr Noppadon.

 

The talks would focus on the safety of the Hmong and the relationship between the two countries.

 

Mr Noppadon said he also discussed border demarcation with his Lao counterpart.

 

Both countries agreed that land border demarcation should be completed this year as the area in dispute covers only 12km in Ban Rom Klao in Phitsanulok.

 

Both sides also expect to complete water demarcation in 2010.

 

All these issues, as well as cooperation on economic matters, will be raised during the visit of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to Vientiane on Feb 29 and March 1.

by Thanida TANSUBHAPOL

Bangkok Post