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Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva yesterday questioned the motive of Pheu Thai Party MP Chalerm Yoobamrung in sending to Cambodian PM Hun Sen an audio clip of Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya criticising Hun Sen.

"I have no idea why he would do that and Chalerm has to answer why. The audio tape was old," the premier said. Abhisit downplayed consequences of Chalerm's move, saying what he did would not adversely affect the bilateral relations between the two countries. Whenever he met Hun Sen, they enjoyed amicable relations.

"Hun Sen told me not to let Preah Vihear [the disputed temple] become an obstacle to other bilateral cooperation,'' he said.

Abhisit said the government would protect the interests of the country and solve the conflict over Preah Vihear through peaceful means.

"That does not mean that [in the interest of ] peace we will allow them [to take over the contested land]. But ....we will be careful not to cause any casualties or losses,'' he said.

Thepthai Senpong, personal spokesman of the Democrat Party leader, attacked Chalerm, saying the politician was putting the country at stake to fulfil his political ambition. "Look back at our history. Ayutthya collapsed because Thais acted as spies for the enemy. Is Chalerm acting like that?'' he said.

He said Chalerm was abusing an internal matter to create greater conflict between the two countries and Thailand would definitely suffer as a result.

"Chalerm, do you love the country? Are you still Thai? If what you are doing causes conflict that cannot be resolved, how will you take responsibility for your actions?'' he asked.

Thepthai also defended Kasit, saying the tape featuring Kasit's stance was recorded before he assumed the foreign portfolio.

Sathit Pitutecha, Democrat Party executive, said Chalerm criticised the prime minister as being immature; but his action in sending the audio clip to Hun Sen showed Chalerm acted like a primary school student.

October 5, 2009
The Nation