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Cambodia and Thailand are planning to open a second border checkpoint by next year to increase trade and tighten cooperation between the countries.

The location will be decided at the Fifth Thailand-Cambodia Joint Trade Committee meeting in the final quarter of this year.

The only Thai-Cambodian checkpoint is at Aranyaprathet in Sa Kaew and Poi Pet in Cambodia.

After a meeting yesterday with Ung Sean, Cambodia's ambassador to Thailand, Commerce Minister Chaiya Sasomsap said the countries intended to beef up trade and investment ties, ensuring long-lasting cooperation.

Ung Sea said the Thai-Cambodian dispute over the Preah Vihear temple had had no effect on trade and investment between private enterprises.

"Cross-border trade with Thailand has increased gradually. Cambodian people still have positive sentiment about Thailand. We recognise Thailand as a close neighbour, and should strengthen trade, investment and other cooperation to help boost economic growth for both sides," he said.

Ung Sea also said he understood the ongoing internal political conflict in Thailand, but hoped those involved would be able to find a solution and calm things down soon.