Thai opposition calls for temple talks

BANGKOK, July 12 (UPI) -- The Thai government should meet with Cambodian officials to settle a territorial dispute over the Preah Vihear temple, a top opposition leader says.

Abhisit Vejjajiva, the head of Thailand's opposition party, said Saturday officials from both countries should meet to ensure a fair resolution to the boundary dispute, the Thai News Agency reported.

Both Cambodia and Thailand have laid claim to a region adjacent to the temple, which was designated a World Heritage Site this week by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

Vejjajiva said Thai officials should ensure any agreement regarding the dispute includes guidelines concerning any potential support facilities for the temple. The opposition leader said such facilities could potentially infringe on Thai territory.

Vejjajiva, who met with the president of Thailand's World Heritage Committee Saturday, told the news agency he was concerned Cambodian officials would be solely responsible for determining zone boundaries as well.