Lao PM: We're concerned about Thai-Khmer conflict

By Suthichai Yoon
The Nation
Published on November 26, 2009

 Bouason said: "We are of course concerned about the Thai-Cambodian conflict because it is not good for Asean as a whole. I have respect for the leaders of both Thailand and Cambodia."

 Asked whether Laos, being a neighbour to both countries, would be ready and willing to serve as the "link" for the two parties, Premier Bouason said: "You asked me whether Laos would be ready to coordinate between the two countries. I personally respect both countries. We have not been contacted by either party. And I have no opinion on this. If our friends honour Laos with such a role, we would of course be ready to be of help."

 The Laotian prime minister said it was important that Asean should avoid developing any "weak points" in the eye of the international community.

 "They [the international community] used to admire Asean. They want Asean to be united," he said.

 Prime Minister Bouason left Vientiane yesterday for a two-day visit to Phnom Penh, where he will hold bilateral talks with Cambodian Premier Hun Sen.

 Asked whether the newly-implemented Asean Charter could provide a mechanism for conflict resolution among member countries, the Laotian leader said Asean remained committed to "non-interference" in the members' internal affairs.

 "As it stands, it's a bilateral issue [between Thailand and Cambodia]," he said.

 Asked whether a third party was needed to resolve the Thai-Cambodian problems, Premier Bouason said: "It's up to the two countries concerned."

 Laos will host the SEA Games for the first time from December 9 to 18.

 "We are very proud to be able to host the SEA Games for the first time, having hosted the Asean Summit a few years ago. Of course, we are very grateful to our friends for helping us realise our dream," Bouason said.

 China has helped Laos build a new 20,000-seat national stadium while Vietnam has contributed by building the games' village. Thailand has also chipped in, financing the construction of an additional stadium.

 "The whole country is very excited about the event. Every Laotian citizen is playing host to SEA Games," Prime Minister Bouason said.

 The Laotian premier said Laos' economy had also been affected by the global economic crisis. But recovery was on the way.

 Last year, Laos' GDP growth stood at 7.9 per cent. This year's it is expected to slip slightly to 7.5 per cent.

 "We believe, our economic growth could grow back to 8 per cent next year," he said.

 Bouason was appointed prime minister on June 8, 2006, replacing Bounyhang Vorachith who became vice president.

 Bouason had previously served as first deputy prime minister since Oct 3, 2003. Prior to that, he had held the ranks of third deputy premier and president of the State Planning Committee. He is also a member of the Politburo.

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/11/26/politics/politics_30117403.php