Thaksin accuses political opponents of “false patriotism”

Thailand’s former prime minister Thaksin  Shinawatra said at a seminar in Phnom Penh on 12/11/09 that his domestic political opponents are suffering from “false patriotism” in their disagreements with Cambodia, according to a German Press Agency report.

Addressing a mix of 250 government officials and business people at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Thaksin said a more prosperous Cambodia would mean opportunities for Thailand as well.

“A prosperous neighbour means better opportunities for us to grow together,” he said, but added: “Of course, not all my compatriots see it that way right now.”

“I do not believe those who do not share our vision now are myopic,” he said. “Their domestic political compulsions force them to false patriotism. Let’s pray that they too will one day appreciate this partnership for progress.”