Thai-Myanmar gas row continues

Thai-Myanmar gas row continues

BANGKOK (AFP): A dispute between Thailand's state-owned petroleum authority and conservationists over a Thai-Myanmar gas pipeline is no closer to resolution, even though work has resumed on the project, reports said yesterday.

Legal experts representing both sides remained at loggerheads after four days of meetings to try to thrash out differences in their interpretations of the pipeline contract, the Bangkok Post reported.

The pipeline project has drawn fire from Thai conservationist groups who want the line rerouted to avoid virgin forest and community areas, but the Petroleum Authority of Thailand has argued delays will make the company liable to heavy fines.

Premier Chuan Leekpai ordered a suspension of the project Friday while lawyers from the two sides sorted out their differences. The suspension ended Monday.