BKK Post-Maritime rows to be raised

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Subject: BKK Post-Maritime rows to be raised in Rangoon

Bangkok Post  22-1-1999
Maritime rows to be raised in Rangoon
Joint patrols seen as answer to disputes

Wassana Nanuam

The army commander will raise with Burmese military leaders a navy proposal
seeking to settle long-standing maritime disputes during his visit next
month.

Gen Surayud Chulanont said yesterday he was asked by the supreme commander
to discuss the possibility of demarcating territorial waters and setting up
joint patrols to guard disputed waters.

The army chief is scheduled to visit Burma on Feb 15.

According to navy chief-of-staff Prasert Boonsong, the navy wants to
demarcate territorial waters some 45 nautical miles off the Ranong coast.

The proposed talks, he said, are likely to be accepted by Burmese military
leaders.

However, he said, the disputes over Koh Khan, Koh Lam and Koh Khi Nok would
be left untouched for the time being because of Burma's strong opposition.

Thailand and Burma have both laid claims over the three islets by planting
their respective national flags on them. Disputes stem from the fact that
Thailand and Burma hold different territorial charts.

Adm Prasert said he hopes the disputes would be settled soon as Prime
Minister Chuan Leekpai, also defence minister, has agreed to lend a helping
hand.

He said naval officers in the area have been uncomfortable since the fierce
mid-sea naval clashes in the middle of this month.

A navy patrol boat clashed with two Burmese frigates after it fired on an
unidentified armed vessel which was chasing three Thai trawlers off Ranong.

Adm Prasert said the navy will not tolerate intrusions from unidentified
boats in Thai waters.

Defence Permanent Secretary Teeradej Meepien said Mr Chuan has agreed to
joint patrols between the two navies in disputed waters.

The premier wants to have the disputes settled through talks at the local
and government levels to avoid hurting neighbourly relations, he said.