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.