BKK Post / April 1, 1998  
Laotian commitment to promote peace  

Pattaya
   Thailand and Laos yesterday reaffirmed their joint 
commitment to take drastic action against those trying to 
undermine their close relations and disturb peace along 
their common border.
   Supreme Commander Gen Mongkol Ampornpisith, deputy 
chairman of the Thai-Lao Border Committee, said the two 
sides also agreed to quickly solve the refugee problem and 
called for support from concerned countries and 
international agencies.
   The two sides will continue to jointly conduct a survey 
and demarcation of overland border posts, exchange 
information and coordinate in the suppression of narcotic 
drugs, provide security and convenience to cross-border 
travellers, Gen Mongkol said.
   Gen Mongkol was assigned by Prime Minister Chuan 
Leekpai, who also serves as defence minister, to head the 
Thai delegation to the meeting in Pattaya. Heading the 
Laotian side was Brig Gen Douangchai Phichit, chief of the 
General Staff of the Lao People's Army.