Academic hopes 3rd Govt-UDD talk fruitful

BANGKOK, 30 March 2010 (NNT) – The Director of Mahidol University’s Research Center for Peace Building, Kothom Areeya, reckons that the talk initiative between the government and the protesters is a good start for a peaceful exit to the political conflict, though yesterday’s discussion should have been more productive.

Speaking of the historic negotiations, Mr Kothom said it was considered a good opportunity for both parties to explain their needs and reasons. However, the second talk which was held yesterday was inconclusive.

The director added that it is a good sign that the prime minister has clearly expressed that he is open for another round of talks with the anti-government UDD protesters, while UDD core leader Jatuporn Prompan also promised to mull over the offer with the supporters.

Mr Kothom suggested that another negotiation, if planned, should not focus on the past incidents but rather on the future decision towards a House dissolution.

The second talk between the government and the UDD core leaders took place yesterday after the first on Sunday failed to reach any conclusion. Both parties still could not reach a common ground on the timeframe for House dissolution.