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BANGKOK, Nov 16 (TNA) – Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have eased somewhat, in part because the well-being of the Thai engineer detailed on accusations of spying is not at risk, acting Thai government spokesman Panitan Watanayagorn said Monday.

Dr Panitan, deputy secretary-general to the prime minister, said the overall situation has improved but the government must continue to monitor possible areas of discord such as a domestic protest in which protesters might use language which might irritate Cambodia.

However, he said, Thailand will clarify to Cambodia and other counties that peaceful protest is the people’s right under the Constitution and the government has no links to the protesters.

Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting will evaluate Thailand’s economic cooperation projects with Cambodia because Thailand may be at a disadvantage as ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra in now economic adviser to the Cambodian government, said the spokesman.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has cooperated with Cambodia to assist a Thai engineer detained in Phnom Penh on spying charges. The ministry has proceeded with the case as with other cases in which Thai nationals are held for legal proceedings, he added.

The Thai engineer was accused of stealing information regarding the flight information of Thailand’s convicted fugitive former premier Thaksin prior to his arrival in Cambodia last week.

Thai legal affairs officials are reviewing the charge and the Cambodian judicial process that Thailand must respect. He believed that the defendant can be defended in court regarding the charges.

Dr Panitan said Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva ordered agencies concerned to oversee it, so it is not worrisome.

Several countries queried Thailand about the Thai Cambodian situation at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Singapore as they want to see the tensions ease, Dr Panitan said.

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva as ASEAN chair invited Cambodian prime minister to attend the climate change conference in Denmark in December to demonstrate strong support from ASEAN member countries.

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan said the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border remains normal and there is no sign of any violence.