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CNN World Report

Thailand, Malaysia in Cooperation Over Border Dispute

Aired June 24, 2001 - 14:06   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
ASIEH NAMDAR, CNN ANCHOR: Cooperation between Thailand and Malaysia has apparently diffused an explosive situation along their borders. Bangkok says the insurgency that followed last April's bomb attacks in Southern Thailand is now under control. Thailand is crediting Malaysia with helping to ease tensions along the border between the two countries. TV 3 Malaysia has more.

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ANNE RAJ, TV 3 CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Two bombings took the the southern provinces near the Thai-Malaysian border, Thailand has said it will seek Malaysia's assistance in dealing with the situation which left one child dead and nearly 50 people injured.

The Malaysia armed forces are keeping a close watch on the northern border, which has recently asked 15 years ago, designated a black area because of communist insurgency. While Bangkok is quelling the insurgency, the prime minister says Thailand is satisfied with the cooperation extended by kuala lumpur (ph).

THAKSIN SHINAWATRA, THAI PRIME MINISTER: The confidence on the policies of Malaysian separatists in Thailand, and also we -- seek tremendous cooperation and support from Malaysian government.

RAJ: Thaksin also noted that close cooperation of both country's security forces has enabled frequent informal discussions to solve problems quickly. The Thai prime minister expressed confidence there would be no problems in terms of security cooperation with the two countries in the future. Since both have a good relationship between their respective ministries.

Thailand is the sixth largest trading partner of Malaysia, and 50 over companies with Malaysian interests are currently operating in Thailand. Thai investments in Malaysia were also showing encouraging growth. Malaysia's stress for the private sectors for both countries to strengthen collaboration and tact business opportunities available in the two countries.

A more constructive and mutually rewarding cooperation could be achieved if they were to focus on the numerous opportunities available. Despite the financial crisis, bilateral trade ask recorded at 28.3 percent increase last year to reach $6.3 billion compared with 1999. (on camera): They feel that Malaysia and Thailand should exchange views and information on the management of financial and economic turmoil more often. This is to enable both countries to learn and ensure a better recovery during difficult times.

Anne Raj of TV 3 Malaysia for this CNN WORLD REPORT.

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