BANGKOK, Aug 13 – An aide to the Thai Foreign Minister on Friday asserted that the Thai-Cambodian territorial dispute can be resolved through bilateral mechanisms, without third party intervention.

Chavanond Intarakomalyasut made his statement after Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on Thursday announced that he would ask United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to mediate with Thailand over the 4.6 sq km area adjacent to the ancient Preah Vihear temple, which is claimed by both countries.

The secretary to the foreign minister confirmed that bilateral discussions on the disputed area are already in progress. Currently, Thai officials are awaiting a joint parliamentary meeting to approve three documents agreed by Joint Boundary Commission (JBC).

MCOT