Ban asks Cambodia, Thailand to peacefully resolve temple issue

UNITED NATIONS: Expressing concern over heightening tension between Cambodia and Thailand over an ancient temple on their border, United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon has appealed both sides to peacefully resolve the issue.

Both countries lay claim over 4.6 square kilometres areas around the Preash Vihear Temple which was inscribed on the World Heritage List of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) earlier this month.

Hundreds of troops are facing each other raising fears of a possible flare up.

"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 between the two countries," Ban's spokesperson said.

The temple dates back to the 11th century and was recognised 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."

Thailand and Cambodia had held talks yesterday on the issue but could not resolve it. Cambodia had complained to the UN Security Council Friday that Thailand had violated its sovereignty and called for UN intervention.