Thailand Recall Cambodian Ambassador
Thailand has recalled its ambassador from Phnom Penh in protest at the decision by the Cambodian government to appoint former Thai leader, Thaksin Shinawatra, as a special adviser. Thaksin was ousted from power by a military coup in 2006 and has been living in exile from Thailand ever since. Last year, a Thai court found Thaksin guilty in his absence of corruption and sentenced him to two years in jail. The current Thai government have previously said they will seek Thaksin’s extradition from Cambodia if he went to live there. For their part, Cambodia have stated they will not extradite Thaksin because they believe he has been a victim of political persecution in Thailand.
Thailand has said they will halt aid to Cambodia as part of their protest, but border checkpoints will remain open and ordinary commerce between the two neighbours will not be affected. Diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand are already strained over the disputed Preah Vihear temple issue.
Update: In a tit-for-tat action, Cambodia has now withdrawn its envoy from Bangkok.
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