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Thursday, 5 November 2009
By Guy De Launey
BBC News, Phnom Penh

Former Prime Minister of Thailand Thaksin Shinawatra has been made an economic adviser to the Cambodian government and Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Mr Thaksin has been living in self-imposed exile since last year and faces a prison sentence for corruption if he returns to Thailand.

But Cambodia says it will refuse any requests for his extradition.

Relations between Cambodia and Thailand have been turbulent in recent months following a border dispute.

Mr Thaksin's new role seems unlikely to help the situation.

An official statement on Cambodian TV said Mr Thaksin was facing politically-motivated charges in Thailand.

A government spokesman told the BBC that Cambodia valued Mr Thaksin's leadership qualities and business experience and that he would be an asset to the country.

Cambodia has been at loggerheads with the current Thai government over a disputed border near Preah Vihear temple.

Opposing troops have exchanged fire several times since the site received World Heritage status last year.

Cambodia has declared its frustration over a lack of progress in talks to resolve the issue.

Thailand has indicated that it will seek Mr Thaksin's extradition if he visits or takes up residence in Cambodia.

Protesters have already made their displeasure known. They demonstrated in front of the Cambodian embassy in Bangkok when the appointment was first proposed at the end of last month.