Govt clarifies aid to Cambodia

Government spokesman Ekkapob Pianpises on Sunday denied Thailand had approved a new 31-million-baht aid project for Cambodia, saying the actual allocation is 18.2 million baht to cover interest payments on two previously completed infrastructure projects.

Dr Ekkapob said the budget item covers interest on the R67 road project, worth 12 million baht, and the Stung Bot checkpoint, worth 6.2 million baht.

"The allocation is 18.2 million baht, not 31 million baht, and is strictly for interest payments on completed projects -- not for any new initiatives," he said, adding the 18.2-million-baht figure was reviewed by both the House and Senate.

Cambodia has been repaying its debt under the agreements, while Thai contractors and supervisors carried out the projects, he said.