New border pass opened

Yet another route to famed Angkor Wat

SI SA KET: -- A new checkpoint linking Si Sa Ket to Cambodia's Anlong Veng was officially opened yesterday to promote trade and tourism.

Thousands of people from both sides of the border have passed through the Chong Sa-ngam checkpoint in Phu Sing district since border crossing was allowed on Nov 11.

The pass provides a new route to Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, about 150km from the border, as well as the shortest route to Anlong Veng, the Khmer Rouge's last bastion.

Yesterday's opening ceremony was presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Chaturon Chaisaeng and Cambodia's Udon Meanchey governor Lai Veera.

The ceremony proceeded less than smoothly amid clouds of dust. Poor road conditions also caused several minor accidents.

Local officials were instructed to improve road conditions before the New Year holiday arrives.

--Bangkok Post 2003-11-25

George do you know whether this crossing is open to non-Cambodian, non-Thai? Or might it be similar to the Chiang Saen - Ton Pheung crossing and others between Thailand and Laos that are open only to Thai and Lao?

Thanks.