Thailand proposes joint border patrol

Thailand proposes joint border patrol

THAILAND: Thailand on Wednesday proposed setting up a joint border patrol force with Myanmar to control rampant drug trafficking.

Deputy Prime Minister Chavalit Yongchaiyudh said he has invited Gen. Khin Nyunt, the No. 3 leader in Myanmar's military government, to visit Thailand to discuss the drug problem.

Thailand accuses the Myanmar government of turning a blind eye to powerful drug lords operating on the border. Smugglers bring huge quantities of amphetamine pills and heroin into Thailand.

"I think is it a good idea to form a joint deployment force on the (border) passes to decrease the feeling of mistrust," Chavalit told reporters.

Chavalit did not say if Khin Nyunt has accepted his invitation, and there was no immediate comment from the Myanmar government. -- AP