Cambodian opposition figure urges ceasefire

A prominent Cambodian opposition figure, Sam Rainsy, has appealed to all sides in the civil war to accept the latest offer for a ceasefire by the prime minister, Hun Sen.

Mr Rainsy told a news conference in Phnom Penh that he would meet resistance commanders and the deposed co-premier, Prince Norodom Ranariddh, in Bangkoknext week, to discuss the offer.

Hun Sen's latest offer would involve opposition troops indicating their positions and the strength of their forces, but staying in place while negotiations continue.The BBC correspondent in Phnom Penh says many people believe the ceasefire is essential for the forthcoming elections, because tens of thousands of Cambodian refugees who now live in camps in Thailand would be unable to take part in the polls.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service