BKK hopes Mae Sot-Myawaddy checkpoint reopens soon

Burma has already received information concerning Thailand's river bank protection projecton the Moei River, Abhisit said. "Therefore, I hope that Burma have better understanding on Thailand and our projects," he said.

The border trade and transport at the Mae Sot-Myawaddy border have been suspended after Burmese government closed down the border checkpoint and the Thai-Burmese Friendship Bridge crossing the Moei River on July 12.

News reports said that the Burmese authorities were unhappy with Thailand's construction of river bank protection on the Thai side because the construction caused soil and stones to fall into the river.

Abhisit said the project was suspended and information of the project was sent to Burma's authorities.

The premier said Thailand would like Burma to re-open the border first and believed Burma will do so soon.

He said Burma and Thailand are both concerned about their own river banks and worry that any construction could affect the river's course and the border line. Thailand, therefore, decided to stop the project and hold talks for clarification.