As of February 14th, 2011, it looks as if the flare-up between Thailand and Cambodia that once again focuses on the Preah Vihear Temple on the border between the two countries should not deter tourists from visiting the area. Although there have been a few deaths due to forces on both sides firing at each other (ten Cambodian troops and villagers, two Thai soldiers and one civilian), the situation is under control and has calmed down considerably since the initial outbreak of hostilities on February 4th last.
What Caused the Flare-up Between Cambodia and Thailand?
Villagers on the Thai side were evacuated to a safe area away from the temple for a few days only. They have since returned to their homes after assurances that all is now well, despite the fact that both countries are still in dispute about both the area and about who fired the first shot. Cambodia is saying it is “at war” with Thailand but the Thais deny this.
The area is not one where many tourists make the crossing however, although many want to visit the disputed temple. A visit to the Preah Vihear temple is not recommended at the moment as soldiers on both sides are nervous as the propaganda war ratchets up and “incidents” are liable to happen.
What Action s are Thailand and Cambodia Taking?
The Foreign Affairs ministers of both countries are due to hold a meeting today, February 14th, with the UN Security Council at which each will present their version of the facts. It is hoped both sides will resolve their difficulties although reading the statements from the respective governments it is difficult to find a meeting point in the rhetoric. Thailand is insisting that Cambodia fired the first shots and that its troops fired back only to defend themselves. They also say that Cambodia used the temple as a military base from which to launch the attack, in strict violation of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee agreement.
For its part, Cambodia declares that not only did Thailand start the war but it used heavy grade weaponry to fire at its soldiers and in the course of the firing, severely damaged the temple.
Are Tourists Safe in Thailand and Cambodia?
Both countries rely heavily on tourism and it is still high season for western visitors. Those involved in the tourist business are hopeful that tourists will realize that what is happening on the border does not affect any other part of their countries and that it is perfectly safe to travel to the popular islands, the capitals Bangkok and Phonm Penh, and the main resorts, towns and villages of the coastal and interior regions. Only in the immediate area of the temple should there be some concern.
Once the sabre rattling settles down, all will be well once again.
See October 2008 Blogs on initial conflict.
Mari Nicholson - Award Winning travel writer and historian, member of British Guild of Travel Writers.Travelwriters.co.uk, and Society of Women Writers and ...
