Subject: a clarification in response to Phnom Penh Post newspaper. Ref: Phnom Penh

Post, Volume 12, Number 16 released for August 1-14, 2003.

Refer to our discussion dated July 24th 2003 between myself, Dr Te Kuyseang and a

representative of the Phnom Penh Post. The meeting was focused on the spending of

the National Budget to Health Ministry.

I would like to clarify in response to your article, that it was a misinterpretation

from what I have said in terms of low disbursement to health from the National Treasury,

some of it had been contributed to the National Election Committee instead of contributed

to the Election Campaign (repeat from Phnom Penh Post).

Another point, which I was also stated to you that we, Ministry of Health is one

of four priority ministries, but the Government has also their own priority above

our priority especially this year election instead of "we have to have

our priorities".

I strongly believe that these messages will clarify to you and I also worried that

people and the public will manipulate those messages into a political sense.

I thank you and looking forward to see your clarification.

- Dr Te Kuyseang - Director General for Administration and Finance Ministry

of Health