The review of the results from an HIV vaccine trial in Thailand concludes, it does show real signs of a protective effect.

In trials, the combination of vaccines gave a 31% level of protection among 16,000-heterosexuals aged 18-30, though doubts have been raised about the significance of the findings.

However, the publication of new data at a conference in Paris indicates, they may be small scale, even so, they are statistically significant.

However, scientists still do not understand what causes the effect and why those most at risk are offered the least protection.

A relaxed preparation for the Thailand Open paid dividends for Gilles Simon Saturday as the second-seeded Frenchman beat Austrian Jurgen Melzer 6-4, 7-6 (7-3) to reach his first ATP final in 12 months.

Simon, who last played for a trophy at the Madrid Masters, in October, 2008, against Andy Murray, will await an opponent from either holder Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Serb fourth seed Viktor Troicki.

According to a group of American researchers, the fortunate discovery of immune system particles that attack the AIDS virus has made the manufacture a potential vaccine offering protection against the incurable disease, a distinct possibility.

Thai shares shot up 2.95 per cent Monday on a regional rally boosted by higher oil prices.

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) index ended at 613.67, up 17.56 points or 2.95 per cent.

A Ford-Mazda joint venture on Monday unveiled a 500-million-dollar factory for small passenger cars in Thailand, but stopped short of announcing when production will start.

Thousands of ethnic Karen villagers have been forced to flee across the border into Thailand over the past few weeks as the Myanmar army steps up its assault on the Karen rebels.

Thailand's cabinet Tuesday approved a 122-million-baht (3.4-million-dollar) budget to purchase 20 armoured cars to better protect government leaders and visiting VIPs, following attacks by anti-government protestors.

Deputy government spokesman Supachai Jaisamut said the cars will be used by the Defence Ministry to provide beefed up security for Thai and foreign leaders.

Forced recruitment by the Myanmar military has driven 3,000 Karen refugees into Thailand, and is likely lead to a bigger exodus soon, the Karen Human Rights Group said Tuesday.