Malaysian, Thai leaders vow to settle border unrest

20.02.2012

Putrajaya

The Malaysian and Thai leaders vowed to work together to address a simmering rebellion in Muslim-majority border regions of southern Thailand during talks on Monday.

The pledge came after a meeting between Malaysian premier Najib Razak and his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra, who took office in August and is finishing up a round of visits aimed at introducing herself to her neighbours.

Mr Najib said the pair 'discussed the need to find a long-term and durable peaceful solution in the south' of Thailand, where a seven-year Muslim insurgency has left thousands dead.

'Prime Minister Yingluck has requested Malaysia to provide whatever assistance and cooperation we can to help Thailand in the process towards a long-term solution in the south,' Najib said at a joint press appearance.