Cambodia's conflict with Thailand triggers anxiety in ASEAN: secretary general

JAKARTA, The Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) said on Monday that conflict between two of its members, Thailand and Cambodia, has triggered anxiety in the organization. "This is not just a border dispute anymore because it has caused anxiety in ASEAN and could affect the image and profile of the body," the Secretary-General of ASEAN Surin Pitsuwan told ambassadors for the organization in a briefing here.

He also has appealed to the two countries to take a maximum restraint and asked ASEAN foreign ministers to assist the two countries in ending the dispute.

Surin told the press that currently, the organization has just to wait for the development there.

"Right now, what we can do is just waiting," said Surin.

Surin said that he was hoping that the two countries could settle their problem amicably.

"Please take all instrument we have here, discussion and other possible assistance," he said.

According to Surin, all instruments should be used to maintain and perfect the organization's integrity. (PNA/Xinhua)

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