InMedia
THAI RATH COMMENT
- Published: 12/11/2009 at 10:51 AM
- Online news: Opinion
Thailand stands to lose more than Cambodia will in the ongoing war of words and diplomatic row over deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
Riding on the crest of nationalism, the ruling Democrat Party has exploited the situation for its own advantage. At least, testy economic issues and corruption allegations have been pushed aside by the media's focus on Thaksin and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
However, it is big Thai investors and border traders who will suffer if the conflict drags on or escalates into a bigger political issue.
CP Group, the Petroleum Authority of Thailand and Siam Cement Group are among big Thai corporations who have invested altogether more than 10 billion baht in the neighbouring country. Not to mention the huge number of Thais who make a living supplying goods to Cambodian traders.
Despite strong action from the Thai side, PM Hun Sen has reiterated he will not extradite Thaksin to Bangkok to serve his two-year jail term. He maintains the former premier is a victim of political persecution.
The Abhisit government must weigh its options carefully, as the impact of the diplomatic crisis will be felt strongly by Thai investors, traders, and the people of both countries.

