Talks between Thailand and Cambodia yesterday failed to end a week-long military stand-off over an ancient temple on their border, which regional neighbors feared could turn violent.

Hundreds of troops at the temple will hold their positions, negotiators said after eight hours of talks on an issue that has whipped up nationalist fervour in both southeast Asian nations.

"The best option is to stay where they are, but avoid using weapons," Thai Supreme Commander Boonsrang Niumpradit told reporters.