Secretary-General appeals for calm between Cambodia and Thailand
21 July 2008 - Expressing concern over the recent escalation of tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, Secretary-General Ban
Ki-moon today called on both sides to peacefully resolve the situation.
There is a build-up of military forces near the Preah Vihear Temple in Cambodia, which was inscribed on the World
Heritage List of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) earlier this month.
"The Secretary-General calls for restraint on both sides and hopes that this matter can be resolved peacefully and by
diplomatic means in the context of the excellent relations that traditional exist between the two countries," according
to a statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson.
The temple, which dates back to the 11th century, and was recognized by the World Heritage Committee for "its natural
situation on a promontory, with sheer cliffs overlooking a vast plain and mountain range; the quality of its
architecture adapted to the natural environment and religious function of the temple; and, finally, the exceptional
quality of the carved stone ornamentation of the temple."
ENDS