Cambodia goes on alert ahead of South Korean president's visit

dpa German Press Agency
Published: Wednesday November 15, 2006

Phnom Penh- Cambodian authorities have sharply stepped up security ahead of a visit by South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun, including sending more than 30 specially trained intervention police to the northern tourist town of Siem Reap, police said Wednesday. Roh is scheduled to attend an annual summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Hanoi on November 18 and 19 before visiting Cambodia from November 19 to 22.

Roh's talks with the nation's top politicians, including Prime Minister Hun Sen, are expected to be aimed at increasing economic cooperation between the two nations. He is also scheduled to visit the Angkor Wat temple complex and inaugurate a cultural exhibition in Siem Reap.

The chief of the criminal police section at the Ministry of Interior, Mok Chito, said 34 so-called Flying Tiger special police had been sent to Siem Reap Tuesday to begin securing the area.

"They will ensure the security of people coming to join the visit and ensure stability," Mok Chito said.

Additional motorbikes, police trucks and weapons had also been sent, he said.

South Korea is a major donor and investor in Cambodia and has increasingly sought to strengthen bilateral relations with the impoverished nation in recent years.

© 2006 dpa German Press Agency