Calm urged in Thai-Burma border dis

[ausgeo@xxxxxxx]

Subject: Calm urged in Thai-Burma border dispute

Tuesday May 27 
Calm urged in Thai-Burma border dispute

BANGKOK, May 27 (UPI) _ Thai troops have been ordered to remain calm but 
vigilant to prevent a border dispute with Burma from escalating into armed 
conflict. 

During the past week Thai and Burmese reinforcements have been sent to a 
disputed islet on the Moei River, which forms a natural border between the two 
countries. 

The confrontation intensified last week when a Burmese work crew began 
dredging the river in an attempt to change its course. 

The river's course had changed two years ago during a flood, cutting into 
Burmese territory and creating the islet. 

Thai officials say the Burmese raised tensions further along the border when 
they sent a rapid deployment force to the area Monday to protect their work 
crew. 

The Thais also have deployed extra troops in the area, and soldiers from the 
two sides now face each other at a distance of as little as 20 yards. 

The dangerous confrontation prompted the Burmese to suspend the dredging 
operation, but they refused to withdraw their troops and heavy equipment. 

Thai army commander General Chettha Thanajaro urged his men today to exercise 
restraint in order to avoid violence. 

Thailand and Burma have a history of hostile relations, but ties have improved 
in recent years. 

Thai Prime Minister Chavalit Yongchaiyudh visited Rangoon two weeks ago and 
pledged to resist pressure from the United States to isolate Burma's military 
junta.