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THAILAND and Cambodia resumed full diplomatic ties in mid-April—during Songkran or Phchum Ben, the two countries' traditional new year, after more than two months of soured relations as a result of the anti-Thai riots in Phnom Penh in late January.

The reconstruction of the Thai embassy in the Cambodian capital, which was torched during the rioting, was due to start on May 1, officials say. Borders between the two countries were opened earlier.

Thailand downgraded relations with Cambodia after the rioting on Jan. 29, which forced Thai citizens to evacuate the capital as angry mobs torched and looted the Thai Embassy and business establishments in Phnom Penh.

In March, Phnom Penh paid 250 million baht (6 million U.S. dollars) as compensation for the damage to the Thai embassy and agreed to pay for damages incurred by Thai-owned businesses in the Cambodian capital.

Thai Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai said the two nations have agreed to set up a joint cultural association to support harmonisation and correction of Thai-Cambodian history, in a bid to build better understanding between the countries.

The riots were sparked by remarks alleged to have been made by a popular Thai actress, which turned out to be fabricated, that the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia was once part of the Thailand. (Bangkok Post, The Nation)


SARS Check for Chinese at the Border

Chinese nationals entering Thailand on the Mekong River are being examined for possible SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) at Chiang Rai port in the northernmost province of Thailand, as part of the government's efforts to prevent the spread of the disease.

In early April, Dr Amnouy Toon-in, director of Chiang Saen's public health office, said Chinese nationals entering through the district would be required to go through extensive medical examinations before being permitted to enter the country.

About 50 cargo ships from China's Yunnan province dock at Chiang Saen district every day, carrying fruits and other goods destined for the Thai market.

China has been criticised for its handling of SARS, which has killed more than 80 people worldwide and left at least 2,200 sick. Mainland China accounts for more than half the fatalities, while international experts in southern China are currently looking for clues to unlock the mystery of the disease. (The Nation)