Thread: Thai PM Srettha Thavisin receives royal endorsement

• Govt grateful Siam Paragon shooting not scaring away Chinese tourists

The government said it is thankful that tourists from China are still coming to Thailand despite the shooting in a Bangkok mall in which a Chinese tourist was killed.

“We express our thanks to the Chinese tourists who understand Thailand and have confidence in the Thai government,” government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said on Saturday.

“Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has instructed all relevant state agencies to do their utmost in implementing the improved measures to take care of all tourists and Thais,” the spokesman added.

He also said the government has promised to provide “full security” to foreign tourists coming to Thailand.

On October 3, a 14-year-old boy armed with a modified blank gun fired at shoppers in the Siam Paragon luxury mall, killing two people and injuring five others.

A Chinese tourist and a Myanmar worker were killed, while another Chinese tourist, a Lao national and three Thais were injured.

A 30-year-old Thai woman who had bullet wounds in her head and torso succumbed to her injuries on October 13, becoming a third dead casualty.

The spokesman said on Saturday that data from Airports in Thailand showed that out of 650,000 Chinese who reserved their flights to Thailand later this year, as many as 590,000 have confirmed their flights after the shooting spree.

“There was only a 9.2% drop, which is normal. This shows that Chinese tourists still have unwavering confidence in Thailand,” he said.

The spokesman claimed that under normal circumstances, the difference between reservations of flights and accommodations and actual tourist arrivals was +/-15%.

• Airforce Airbus 340-500 granted six overflights to pick up Thais in Israel

The evacuation of Thai nationals from Israel is gaining momentum after the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has been granted permission for overflights by ten countries en route to Israel, with the first RTAF Airbus 340-500 aircraft having left Bangkok shortly after midnight this morning (Sunday).

The aircraft is scheduled to arrive at the military section of Don Mueang airport at about 4.40am on Monday morning carrying 137 evacuees.

According to the RTAF, the ten countries which have granted overflights are Laos, China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, Cyrus and Israel. The RTAF plans six flights to pick up Thais who want to return to home for their safety.

More than 7,000 of the roughly 30,000 Thais working in Israel, mostly in the agricultural sector, have applied to fly home.

An informed RTAF source said that they have approached Thai Airways International, seeking pilots who have served in the RTAF and have experience of flying the Airbus 340 aircraft to help in the evacuation plan, because it does not have sufficient pilots, who must be rotated for the long flight between Israel and Thailand through the airspaces of nine other countries.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is scheduled to hold a meeting of the Rapid Response Centre at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at 4pm this afternoon.

The Thai embassy in Tel Aviv has arranged for a hotel in the Israeli capital, to be used as a temporary shelter for Thai evacuees.

Meanwhile, a third group of 90 Thais, including 88 men and two women, were flown back to Thailand before dawn today(Sunday) from Dubai. The Fly Dubai flight touched down at U-Tapao airport in Chon Buri province at about 5.40am.

Among those arriving were three injured Thais, who were given first-aid treatment before being bussed to a hotel in Bangkok’s Wang Thong Lang district, where their families were waiting to greet them.

One of the injured, 35-year-old Natthapong Nuanchan, told Thai PBS that he was sleeping in his living quarters on a farm when he was awoken by the sound of sirens and ran towards a bunker, but was hit in the leg by shrapnel.

He said that he had worked at a farm in Israel for four years and he still has one year left under the employment contract, but he will not return to Israel due to the constant terrorist threat.

Government aiming to fly back at least 400 Thais from Israel daily

• 32 flights ready to evacuate some 5,700 Thais from Israel within Oct: Srettha

The government has readied 32 flights to bring back some 5,700 Thai workers from Israel within October, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Sunday.

The premier was speaking to reporters after chairing a meeting with the Rapid Response Centre at the Foreign Ministry. The centre was set up after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack against Israel last Saturday.

Srettha said the meeting focused on efforts to evacuate Thai workers, and it resolved that the 32 flights should be enough to fly 5,700 Thais back from Israel before the end of this month. However, this would still not be enough to bring back the 7,500 Thai workers who have registered to return.

The 32 flights prepared include those of Nok Air, Thai AirAsia and India’s SpiceJet.

The centre expects the number of Thai workers wishing to return home to increase, Srettha added.

Some of the flights will be non-stop from Tel Aviv to Bangkok, while others will transit through Dubai, Jordan or Cyprus, the premier said.

Srettha added that the centre was informed of the main obstacles to evacuating workers, including moving them from risky areas to safe houses where they can wait for their turn to leave and the inadequate number of flights.

Srettha said the centre had considered using an Airbus A380 plane, which has two floors and can fly up to 500 passengers each time. However, Thai Airways officials have warned that the A380 has been parked unused for a long time and would require maintenance before it can fly.

Hence, the centre has tasked all relevant government agencies to try and find more flights for evacuation.

“I affirm that state agencies are trying to use all channels to boost the number of flights to bring all Thais back within this month,” Sretha said.

The prime minister said evacuations can only be done by air, as Israel has closed all its ports.

He added that the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv was racing against time to try and bring some 400 Thais to the prepared shelter. Srettha added that the Thai government has been using all diplomatic channels, intelligence agencies, military contacts as well as connections with non-governmental organisations to secure the release of the 17 Thai hostages.

The Thai Foreign Ministry has also been negotiating with both Palestine and Israel to seek the release of the 17 Thais as soon as possible.

Srettha added that his government is still in the dark about when Hamas militants would free the Thai hostages.

He added that Hamas is not targeting Thais in particular as they had taken other nationals hostage too. He added that Thailand would not change its non-partisan stance when it comes to Middle East conflicts.

• Thai govt dismisses critics, refuses to back down on digital wallet scheme

The government will not cancel the digital wallet scheme despite warnings from economic experts, because it is bound to revive the economy, a government spokesperson said.

Treechada Srithada, deputy government spokesperson, said on Sunday that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat are determined to launch the scheme, under which 10,000-baht digital wallets will be handed to all Thais aged 16 and above.

“The scheme will be successfully implemented in line with the policy statement that the government has announced in Parliament,” she said.

Treechada added that the conditions and details for implementing the scheme will be clearer within this month, once the subcommittee in charge has worked out all the details.

She said the scheme’s basis will not be changed, but some details may be adjusted.

While campaigning for votes, the coalition leader Pheu Thai had announced that it would give 10,000 baht to all Thais using Blockchain-based digital wallets for them to spend within a 4-kilometre radius of their homes.

However, people in the provinces have complained that their homes are surrounded by forests or plantations, with no shops for them to spend in. This concern has reportedly prompted the subcommittee to expand the area for spending.

Treechada said both Srettha and Julapun would take heed of both supporters and critics and take up useful comments for consideration.

She said the committee in charge of implementing the scheme would come up with clear-cut details on how to raise 560 billion baht for financing the scheme.

Thai govt dismisses critics, refuses to back down on digital wallet schemeTreechada added that Pheu Thai was not being obstinate about this scheme but had had it studied by economic experts before proposing it to voters.

She said after Srettha, who also holds the Finance portfolio, and Julapun, who is in charge of fiscal affairs, have listened to comments from all sides, the project would definitely be implemented prudently.

“The 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme will be like resuscitating the economy so it can generate an economic storm to push the country forward,” she added.

• PM Srettha to attend the ASEAN-GCC summit in Riyadh

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will attend the inaugural summit between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Friday, immediately following his visit to China, according to high-level government sources.

Srettha will wrap up his four-day trip to China, which begins on Monday, and fly directly to Riyadh for a two-day visit. The prime minister will join other ASEAN leaders on Friday at the summit, which will be held in the Saudi capital. Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman will be the host.

The sources said that Srettha will have the opportunity to hold side-line meetings with other GCC members, to expedite the repatriation of Thai workers from Israel. The government has pledged to bring back all workers who want to return home as soon as possible.

After more than two decades, ASEAN-GCC relations have been revitalised due to the new paradigm caused by rivalry between the superpowers. In addition, GCC members are very active in shaping the new international order.

The first ASEAN-GCC Ministerial Meeting was convened in June 2009 in Manama, Bahrain and saw the adoption of the ASEAN-GCC Joint Vision. This outlined a study, to be undertaken by both sides, and their joint recommendations on the future of ASEAN-GCC relations regarding a free trade area, economic cooperation and development, culture, education and information.

Under the Indonesian chair, ASEAN has further reached out to the Middle East to broaden engagement with the oil-rich region. As a result, all GCC members have acceded to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC). Bahrain was the first GCC member to sign the TAC in 2019 and the rest have followed suit over the past two years.

^ mixing with all the worlds desirables

• PM says no positive signs yet of release of Thai hostages held by Hamas

Talks between Thailand’s allies in the Middle East and Hamas over the release of Thai hostages are still under way, but there are no positive signs yet of whether or when they will be released, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today (Monday).

He said that the government is trying all means possible to secure their safe return.

He disclosed that one more Thai is reported to have been killed in Israel, bringing the Thai death toll to 29, and one more Thai is reported to be being held hostage, adding that the situation in Israel remains tense and critical.

The prime minister said that six Thais, who were reported to have flown out of Israel, have encountered some problems, rendering it impossible for them to leave and they cannot be contacted.

Meanwhile, the Thai embassy in Tal Aviv said that 244 Thais have chartered an El Al flight, which left Israel at 6.20am today and is due to arrive at Suvarnabhumi international airport at about 7pm this evening.

Among the passengers on this flight are 30 students from Princess of Naradhiwas University. and three from Rajabhat Sakhon Nakhon University.

• Thai PM will meet with Putin in Beijing on Wednesday

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will hold a side-line meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Beijing.

Srettha told a press conference on Monday, after the Cabinet meeting, that he has a scheduled meeting with the Russian leader. This follows the Cabinet decision today (Monday) to extend the visa-free period for Russian tourists, from 30 to 90 days, to promote tourism.

An informed source told Thai PBS World that Srettha will meet Putin on Wednesday afternoon, after he attends the opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Forum. On Thursday, before he leaves Beijing, he will also meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.

It will be the first such meeting for both leaders. They are among dozens of leaders who are participating in the Third Belt and Road Initiative Cooperation Forum, being held in Beijing.

Putin, who was scheduled to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting last November, pulled out in the last minute. He had been among the first leaders to confirm his participation, but the ongoing war with Ukraine undermined his intention to visit Thailand.

Thailand is among only a few countries with a visa-free agreement with Russia. In 2003, both countries signed the visa waiver agreement. Over one million Russian tourists visited Thailand during the first nine months of this year.

Thailand agrees to extend visa-free stay for Russian tourists to 90 days | Thai PBS World : The latest Thai news in English, News Headlines, World News and News Broadcasts in both Thai and English. We bring Thailand to the world

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• PM revs up to woo Tesla by driving to work in wife’s Model Y

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin borrowed his wife’s fully electric, mid-size Tesla Model Y in a gesture he hopes will lure the American automaker into investing in Thailand.

He was first spotted getting out of the white car at the Royal Thai Police headquarters on Monday morning before he headed off to Government House to preside over the weekly Cabinet meeting.

Srettha later told the press that he had borrowed his wife Pakpilai’s car because he wants to win Tesla’s heart when he gets to talk to the company next month.

Apart from being emission-free, he said the Tesla Model Y was also easy to get in and out of when compared to the Mercedes Benz S-Class he has been allocated as prime minister.

The government is planning to promote Thailand as an EV hub in Southeast Asia, he said, adding that the topic will be part of the agenda during his trip to Beijing.

Srettha and his delegation are in China to attend the two-day 3rd Belt and Road Forum, which kicks off on Tuesday.

This is where Srettha can really cash in.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin arrived in Beijing on Monday to attend the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, which will be held on October 17 and 18.

• Srettha slams Israeli employers for forcing Thais to work under war conditions

The number of Thais killed in the Israel-Hamas conflict has risen to 29, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said.

Srettha revealed the numbers before boarding a flight to Beijing on Monday. The premier is scheduled to attend the 3rd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The premier said the latest reports indicate that the situation in Israel has not improved at all, and is actually becoming more critical.

When asked if there were any positive signs in securing the hostages’ release, Srettha said: “There haven’t been any as of yet, but efforts are ongoing. There are moves in the right direction, but detainees have not been released.”

He also said that six workers who have registered to return to Thailand are currently unable to reach the airport. The Thai embassy in Tel Aviv is finding it difficult to contact them, and it is believed they may be stranded in a high-risk area.

The premier added that the Foreign Ministry will meet to discuss measures today and should have a report ready for him by the time he arrives in Beijing.

Srettha has instructed relevant agencies to make every effort to arrange additional flights and evacuate as many Thais from Israel as possible.

As for reports that some Israeli employers are still forcing their employees to go to the field for work despite the constant bombardments, Srettha said such situations are unacceptable. He said he has spoken to the Israeli ambassador in Bangkok and instructed her to ensure nobody is sent to work in fields as this is a matter of life and death. He said the government was closely monitoring and addressing this issue.

• PM Srettha meet Russian President Putin Beijing

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in Beijing on Tuesday on the sidelines of China's flagship Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) forum.

Srettha expressed his pleasure in meeting President Putin and considered it a valuable opportunity to reaffirm their dedication to bolstering the relationship between Thailand and Russia. Russia has been a steadfast friend to Thailand, and both nations celebrated the 125th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2022. He strongly believes that both parties should collaborate to strengthen and deepen their relationship and cooperation, bringing them even closer in the spirit of goodwill.

President Putin praised the longstanding and close relationship between Thailand and Russia. He also emphasized the need for both sides to enhance their cooperation, particularly in cultural and tourism aspects. The people-to-people relations between the two nations are robust, and in 2024, it will be a year of cultural exchange and tourism between Thailand and Russia. Furthermore, it's worth noting that over one million Russian tourists visit Thailand.

The Prime Minister also informed Putin of Thailand's decision on October 16 to extend the length of stay for Russian tourists in Thailand from 30 days to 90 days.

During this opportunity, both sides discussed crucial areas of cooperation.

In the political sphere, both sides support continuous knowledge and experience exchanges among personnel of the security councils of both countries.

In the economic sphere, both parties recognized the need to enhance trade facilitation between them. The Prime Minister called for Russia to promote agricultural trade, and he also extended an invitation for Russia to consider increasing investments in Thailand.

Srettha has extended an invitation to the President of Russia to visit Thailand, which Putin has accepted, and both sides will coordinate to determine a mutually convenient date in the future.

The Russian leader has used his rare trip abroad to meet a number of leaders, including Hungary's Viktor Orban. It is only his second time travelling outside the former Soviet Union region since February 2022 when Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into neighbouring Ukraine in what it calls its "special military operation".

International leaders are in China to attend the event marking the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative - the brainchild of the Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The BRI is an ambitious plan launched by Xi in 2013 which oversees the creation of global infrastructure, transport and energy networks connecting Asia with Africa and Europe.

Srettha meets Putin in Beijing

Returning Thai workers will be able to earn a living: Labour Ministry

Thai workers affected by Israel-Hamas conflict will receive assistance, allowing them to earn a living and take care of their families, Labour Ministry permanent secretary Phairoj Chotikasatien said on Monday.

He said the ministry is assisting Thai workers based on the following guidelines.

• Workers who fall under the fund for assisting workers overseas will get 15,000 baht per person after arriving in Thailand.
• The Labour Ministry will facilitate return to Israel once the war ends for those who wish to do so. Those who do not want to return can contact the ministry to work in other countries, or the Department of Employment to seek jobs in Thailand.
• Workers can contact provincial skill development centres nationwide to receive labour skill training, so they will be able to earn a living and take care of their families.
• The minister counsellor for labour affairs at the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv, Kittana Srisuriya, is negotiating with employers to pay the remaining wages to Thai workers.

Phairoj stressed that the Labour Ministry is looking after the interests of Thai workers in Israel, and will ensure that those return home receive benefits and legal protection.

• Soon 600 Thais to be evacuated a day from Israel, says PM, as death toll rises to 30

The UN secretary-general has expressed his condolences over the loss of Thai lives in Israel, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday, as the Israeli government confirmed the death of another Thai, raising fatalities to 30.

The Israeli government confirmed the death to the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, although it was not clear when the latest victim had died.

The number of injured remained unchanged at 16 while 18 are presumed to have been taken hostage by Hamas.

Srettha was speaking to reporters in Beijing on Wednesday morning.

He met UN Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the 3rd Belt and Road Initiative forum.

Srettha said he had told the UN chief that despite Thailand not being a party to the conflicts over Palestine, it had suffered the second highest death toll after the US.

Srettha said the UN secretary-general was shocked by the loss of Thai lives and expressed his condolences.

Srettha said the UN chief told him that he would travel to Egypt and visit the area near the Gaza Strip to pressure for an end to the war as soon as possible.

On the repatriation of Thai workers from Israel, Srettha said the government could repatriate about 400 Thais per day and would soon be able to increase the capacity to 600 a day.

The prime minister added that the Thai government was not complacent about the safety of the remaining Thai workers in Israel.

He said Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara was in the process of seeking permission for the use of ports of Middle East nations to repatriate Thais by sea.

Srettha said the US has repatriated its 1,500 to 2,000 citizens by boat to Cyprus but the Israeli ports have been closed.

The prime minister added that many Thais were still unable to leave the risky zones in Israel and dozens of Thais could not reach the airport in time for their flights although they had registered with the Thai embassy for repatriation.

He said the Supreme Commander of the Thai Armed Forces had been trying to coordinate with the Israel Defence Forces, seeking help to evacuate Thais from risky zones as soon as possible.

Srrettha also urged the remaining Thais to decide as soon as possible whether they want to continue working in Israel at their own risk or return to Thailand.

“The risk is on you. The government has a duty to repatriate people fast and safe after you make a decision to return home,” Srettha said.

Thai air force plane leaves Wednesday to pick up 145 Thais in Israel

• TAT asks for Bt600m to promote tourism during the fourth quarter of this year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is seeking Bt600 million from the Central Fund for a tourism promotion campaign and the holding of events, domestically and abroad, highlighting the architectural marvel of Wat Arun Ratchawararam Temple, or Wat Arun, and Nakhon Ratchasima, in an effort to increase tourist arrivals to six million during the last quarter of this year.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol said yesterday (Tuesday) that the money will mostly be spent on four projects designed to increase arrivals and tourism-related revenue, estimated at about 31 billion baht.

New Year countdown events, on the theme of “Thailand Festival Experience” will be held in five regions of Thailand, with the highlights being firework and son et lumière displays at Wat Arun and a ten-day festival in front of Nakhon Ratchasima’s provincial hall, said the minister.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the TAT will also support the private sector in holding their New Year countdown events, at Icon Siam and Central World shopping malls, as it has done in previous years.

For the Loy Krathong festival in November, she said the TAT will host a major event on the Phadung Krung Kasem canal and Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.

The governor forecasts that at least seven million tourists will visit Thailand during the last quarter of this year, with about two million arrivals expected in October and 2.5 million in both November and December.

Up to October 15 this year, tourist arrivals from China were 2,645,885, short of the TAT’s target of four million. Total tourist arrivals over the same period were around 21 million, with Malaysians topping the arrival list, followed by Chinese, South Koreans, Indians and Russians.

In Beijing, the TAT will be signing letters of intent tomorrow (Thursday) with its eight Chinese partners, namely Trip.com, Ant International, Meituan, Huawei, Spring Airlines, Xinhua Net iQIYI and JegoTrip, all of which are major travel agents in China, said Thapanee, adding that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is currently in Beijing attending the international forum on China’s Belt and Road Initiatives, will witness the signing.
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• Labour minister: Bodies to be returned to Thailand once identification complete

The bodies of Thai workers killed in the Israel-Hamas conflict will start being sent back in a week once the identification process is complete, Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on Tuesday.

Phiphat added that the government can do nothing about the bodies of the 29 Thai workers confirmed killed in Israel right now because it must wait for Israeli authorities to complete the identification process first.

“I believe in a week, some of the identified bodies will be sent back,” Phiphat said.

As for evacuating Thais from Israel, he said more than 7,5000 have registered with the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv and the embassy has been coordinating with them.

He said arrangements have been made for two to three flights daily to bring back 200 to 300 Thais and the Labour Ministry has mobilised officials in Tel Aviv to facilitate the evacuations.

Phiphat said the Thai government now has one plane from Thai Airways International, one from the Royal Thai Air Force, two from AirAsia and two for NokAir to use for evacuations.

He said the planes may not be enough to shift all 7,500 workers within this month, though the government will evaluate the situation as it unfolds.

He said if the war escalates to the inner areas of Israel, efforts to evacuate Thai workers would be sped up.

On reports that some Thai workers were being forced by their employers to continue working in the fields despite the ongoing war, Phiphat said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has instructed the Thai embassy to coordinate with Israel to tell the employers to stop such practices.

• Cabinet approval sought to extend state of emergency in Thailand's south

The Emergency Situation Public Administration Committee will seek approval from the Cabinet to extend the state of emergency in three restive southern provinces, from October 20th through to January 19th next year.

A state of emergency is currently in force in Narathiwat province, with the exception of Si Sakhon, Su-ngai Kolok, Waeng and Sukhirin districts, in Pattani province, with the exception of Yaring, Mayo, Mai Kaen and Mae Lan districts and in Yala province, with the exception of Betong and Kabang districts.

Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, in his capacity as head of the committee, said today (Tuesday) that the committee decided to omit Krong Penang district in Yala, Thung Yang Daeng district in Pattani and Yi Ngor district in Narathiwat from state of emergency coverage and, at the same, reinstate Si Sakhon district in Narathiwat under state of emergency.

He said that there are altogether 20 districts still under a state of emergency, adding that, if the situation improves by the end of this year, 5-10 districts are expected to be removed from the list of districts under the state of emergency.

The State of Emergency Act is tougher than the National Security Act in several respects. Under a state of emergency, authorities can ban public assembly, arrest without a warrant, tap phones, examine all communications while authorities remain immune from prosecution.

Asked when the State of Emergency Act will be revoked, the deputy prime minister said no decision has been reached on the matter yet.

• Thai aircraft will fly to Dubai on Sunday to pick up evacuees from Israel

Starting Sunday, Thai evacuees will be flown from Israel to Dubai for transit to chartered planes, which will bring them back to Thailand.

Meanwhile, the remains of eight Thai nationals killed in the Hamas attack on Israel will be flown back to Thailand on Friday morning, according to the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv.

Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kanchana Patarachoke said that the flight from Tel Aviv to Dubai takes about three hours and a large capacity aircraft has been chartered for the evacuation. Aircraft chartered from Nok Air, Air Asia, Lion Air and the Royal Thai Air Force will then be used to fly about 600 evacuees back to Thailand at a rate of 2 or 3 flights a day.

The spokeswoman said 926 evacuees have already been flown back to Thailand on seven chartered flights, including those arranged by the Royal Thai Air Force. Some people chose to arrange their own passage back to Thailand.

Another 225 Thais are due back in Bangkok on two flights today (Thursday), with 145 scheduled to arrive at about 1.40pm, followed by another flight carrying 80.

Kanchana said that the number of Thais applying to be repatriated and the number actually flying back to Thailand may not match, because some may have changed their minds or have not yet arrived in the Israeli capital.

She also warned Thais planning overseas trips to check the situation at their destination, noting that protests have been reported in several countries following the attack on a hospital in Gaza, which killed more than 500 people and wounded many others.

According to the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv, the Israeli institute of forensic science has already examined and identified eight Thai victims and has granted permission for their remains to be repatriated on an El Al flight, due to leave Tel Aviv at 8am local time, arriving at Suvarnabhumi international airport at around 8.50am tomorrow.

The eight have only been publically identified as “Pongsathorn”, “Phichit”, “Chairat”, “Arnan”, “Pongphat”, “Anucha” and “Pongthep”.

In total, 30 Thai workers are reported to have been killed in the Hamas attacks. 17 others are being held captive by Hamas and 16 were injured.

• Thailand Proposes Four Priorities to Realize the Vision of a Green Silk Road

In his statement made at the High-Level Forum “Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature” at the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) on 18 October 2023 in Beijing, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin proposed four priorities for actions to realize the vision of a Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature.

The Prime Minister said, “First, we must implement green transition across sectors, and promote sustainable production and consumption through all economic activities. This includes transportation, energy, and infrastructure. New technologies and digital transformation can greatly help green transition, although responsible use and equitable access must be ensured.

“On our part, Thailand is actively implementing our Long-term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy. We have realigned our National Energy Plan in shifting consumption to clean energy and promoting energy efficiency. We aim to increase the production of zero emission vehicles to 30 percent by 2030, while encouraging foreign investment in the electric vehicle sector. We also plan to scale up sustainable agronomy to reduce climate change vulnerability and improve farmers’ well-being.

“I am optimistic that these policies will help us reach our national targets to reduce 40 percent of greenhouse gas emission by 2030, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero emission by 2065.

“Second, we must recognize the importance of environment and ecosystem conservation. Thailand aims to expand green areas up to 55 percent of the country's total area. As for marine and coastal biodiversity, Thailand is committed to the "30 by 30 Target” for protected areas, per our pledge during COP CBD in December 2022. We believe that sustainable blue economy will be crucial to achieve a Green Maritime Silk Road.

“Third, Green Finance Mechanism is an indispensable tool for a green transition. So far, we have raised 12.5 billion US dollars through the issuance of Sustainability Bond to fund multiple sustainable projects. Soon, we will introduce Sustainability Linked Bonds to stimulate the growth of green bonds market. This will incentivize all entities as well as supporting the private sector and MSMEs to engage in eco-friendly businesses.

“My fourth and final point is that we need to foster our cooperation and commitment to multilateralism. Multilateral frameworks provide opportunities for collaboration, building partnerships, sharing knowledge, and stimulating innovations for the welfare of the people.”

The Prime Minister said that Thailand is a firm believer in the sustainability agenda. The country believes that a “greener” development is necessary to advance the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) towards a “High-Quality Belt and Road Cooperation” for “Common Development and Prosperity.”

He also stated that the Thai Cabinet had affirmed the study and implementation plan for the Land Bridge project. This project will connect the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean to the Gulf of Thailand and the Pacific Ocean, improving connectivity in the southern Andaman region. This will reduce the commute time going through the Strait of Malacca under the logistic operation idea of “one port, two sides” across a land distance of 90 kilometers in southern Thailand.

“We hope that this will work in harmony with BRI infrastructure and help connect the world,” he said.

Greener approach to China's Belt and Road Initiative needed
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• China's Xi calls for efforts to fight cross-border crimes with Thailand

Beijing – China and Thailand should step up efforts to crack down on cross-border crimes such as telecommunications fraud and online gambling, President Xi Jinping told Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in Beijing on Thursday.

China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Thailand within multilateral frameworks, state media China Central Television quoted Xi as saying while meeting Srettha.

The Thai premier was in Beijing to attend the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum.

• Launch of government'''s digital money handout to be delayed

The government scheme to hand out 10,000 baht in digital money to Thais is unlikely to start on February 1 next year as instructed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said on Thursday.

He said the delay was caused by the need for more time to develop a security system for the scheme.

“The prime minister’s instruction was for the handout to start by February 1, 2024. But that date will not be met. It’s because we need more time to develop a stable and secure system. We can’t compromise on security of the system just to finish the work in time,” Julapun said.

He maintained, however, that the system would be completed and the handout could start within the first quarter of next year.

The scheme calls for 10,000 baht in digital money to be distributed to all Thais aged 16 and above for them to buy things at shops within a 4-kilometre radius of their registered address in a six-month period. Julapun, however, said on Wednesday that the stipulation on 4km radius was likely to be scrapped.

The government has said the handout was aimed at boosting the Thai economy so that its GDP would grow as much as 5% per year.

Critics have warned that the scheme would become a huge financial burden for the country as it requires an estimated 560 billion baht in state budget. Among those opposing the controversial policy are former Bank of Thailand governors, former finance ministers, and many economists and academics.

Julapun, who heads a government subcommittee tasked with driving the handout scheme, said on Thursday that his panel had not reached a conclusion on the funding source and handout conditions. He said the subcommittee would meet again next Tuesday (October 24) and would submit its proposal to the digital-money handout committee, which is chaired by PM Srettha.

In response to suggestions that the handout should focus on vulnerable groups, Julapun said that this scheme was aimed at stimulating the economy, and it was not a welfare policy.

“This policy is aimed at stimulating the economy, as the country’s GDP growth has been low. If the government does nothing about it, the GDP will continue to see low growth. With this policy, we believe the GDP would expand close to 5%,” the deputy finance minister said.

Julapun dismissed concerns of possible irregularities that could taint this project in the same way as the Yingluck Shinawatra government’s rice-pledging scheme in the past. He voiced confidence that the system under development of this government would effectively prevent any corruption.

“We are sure there will be no irregularities. But if any corruption case emerges, the government would certainly take legal action,” he said.

• Srettha touts advantages of "land bridge" project for Chinese investors

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin says he has assured his Chinese counterpart, Li Qiang, that the land bridge mega project in southern Thailand will not only provide another shipping route, linking the Indian and Pacific oceans, in addition to the Straits of Malacca, but will also provide an ideal location for Chinese investors to establish factories producing goods for distribution to many other countries.

He said Thailand’s land bridge project will complement China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which is supported by the Thai government, adding that his visit to Beijing to attend the international forum on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is successful and is giving him confidence that, with the implementation of the land bridge and investment in more electric vehicle assembly plants by Chinese investors, among other industries, Thailand’s economic development will be given a big shot in the arm.

The land bridge will link Chumphon province, on the Gulf of Thailand coast, with Ranong province, on the Andaman Sea coast, with a road and rail system for the transport of goods between the ports on each coast. This will shorten the distance for cargo currently using the Straits of Malacca and save about four transit days.

The prime minister also said he discussed bilateral trade in agricultural products between Thailand and China. He also proposed that China set up a screening facility for cattle to be exported from Thailand in China, instead of relying on the one in Laos, to facilitate the export process by land through Laos or also directly to China by sea.

The prime minister said he felt a close connection with his Chinese counterpart, after the latter gave him his personal phone number to aid in direct communication.

“This a good sign, as our two countries are interdependent, with China regarded as a big brother,” said Srettha, adding that he also proposed that China build another bridge across the Mekong river, linking Thailand’s Nong Khai province with Vientiane in Laos, to facilitate the export of Thai goods to China via Laos and vice versa.

• Srettha proposes FTA with Arab bloc in talks with Saudi leader

The leaders of Thailand and Saudi Arabia vowed to strengthen economic, tourism and security ties between their two countries on Friday.

Thai PM Srettha Thavisin proposed a free-trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council during his meeting with Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh, said government spokesman Chai Watcharong.

Srettha is in Riyadh for the first Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit.

Srettha also thanked Saudi Arabia for restoring diplomatic relations with Thailand last year after a decades-long freeze.

Srettha also offered Thailand’s support for Saudi Arabia’s bids to host of the World Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034.

He added that Thailand was also ready to host the first Saudi-Thai Coordination Council meeting to review the two countries’ cooperation in political and consular affairs, investment, security, tourism, the economy and trade, Chai said.

Srettha proposes FTA with Arab bloc in talks with Saudi leader

Thailand’s Defence Industry and Energy Centre, and Defence Technology Institute, have been tasked with overseeing security cooperation between the two countries, Chai added.

Srettha also thanked Saudi Arabia for taking care of more than 6,000 Thai workers in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, pledged to do its best to assist Thais taken hostage in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict.

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• Srettha and Xi agree to boost Thai-China economic, tourism and security ties

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and China’s Xi Jinping agreed to strengthen relations between their countries across four dimensions during a successful meeting in Beijing on Thursday, the Thai government has announced.

Economic, tourism, security, and multilateral collaboration between Thailand and China will be boosted over the next year, said Prime Minister's Office spokesman Chai Watcharong, summarising the outcome of Thursday’s meeting.

Srettha also invited Xi to visit Thailand.

The spokesman detailed the four key results of the meeting between Srettha and Xi as follows:

1. Economic cooperation: Both sides acknowledged that economic challenges globally, including the slowdown and geopolitical tensions, had impacted the economies of both their countries. They expressed willingness to cooperate to enhance readiness in responding to these challenges. Thailand also highlighted the importance of Chinese investors and welcomed their contributions to various sectors, especially in targeted industries like electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, semiconductors, clean energy, and industries related to Thailand's BCG economic model. China has been Thailand's top foreign investor over the past year. Xi told Srettha that Chinese investors were interested in Thai megaprojects.

Meanwhile, a proposed land bridge project to link the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea would spur Chinese investment in Thailand’s EV manufacturing hub and inject over 1 trillion baht into the Thai economy, Srettha said.

2. Tourism cooperation: Srettha stressed that tourism policy offers the potential of rapid benefits for Thailand. The government has already implemented temporary visa exemption for Chinese nationals to promote tourism and facilitate travel between the two countries.

Srettha meanwhile expressed his condolences over the October 3 shooting at Siam Paragon mall in which a Chinese tourist was among three people killed.

In a separate meeting with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, Srettha said Thailand was considering permanent visa-free entry for Chinese travellers.

3. Security collaboration: Both countries affirmed their cooperation in combating transnational crimes affecting business activities in Thailand's neighbouring countries. They agreed to work together to address cybercrime, call centre scams, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. The leaders also discussed enhancing safety measures for foreign tourists and proposed mutual exemptions from security checks.

4. Multilateral cooperation: Thailand and China discussed supporting each other in international forums, including the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC), Asean-China cooperation, and collaboration within the United Nations to promote regional and global development.

Both leaders reiterated that China and Thailand were not just neighbours, but akin to siblings, with close economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties. They also looked forward to celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2025.

• Repatriation of Thais from Israel to be accelerated from Monday

Thailand has decided to speed up the repatriation of its citizens in Israel to 800 per day, by increasing the number of flights to three a day from Monday, according to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Two flights will be direct and the third via Dubai, which will be the transit point for Thais flown out of Tel Aviv to board charter flights arriving from Thailand.

The Thai Foreign Ministry has asked Thais who have registered for repatriation with the embassy in Tel Aviv, but have changed their mind, to notify the embassy in advance of their scheduled departure, so officials can manage passenger loading effectively.

Two more flights from Israel are due to arrive in Bangkok today (Saturday), carrying a total of 534 Thai evacuees. They are an Arkia Airline flight landing at about 2pm carrying 214 and a Spice Jet flight arriving at about 4pm with 320 Thai returnees.

The Royal Thai Air Force’s third evacuation flight is scheduled to depart Thailand at 1.30pm today for Israel and is due back tomorrow at 1.40pm with 140 Thais on board. Another El AI flight, carrying 311 Thais, is expected to arrive on the same day.

The Thai Foreign Ministry gave an update yesterday on Thai hostages being held by Hamas, saying that two more Thais were abducted, bringing the total number being held to 19.

Paetongtarn ideal for Pheu Thai leader’s job: Srettha

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said Pheu Thai Family project leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra is well qualified to become the party’s leader, though the decision will depend on the party meeting on Friday.

Pheu Thai Party has scheduled a general assembly on Friday to elect a new leader and executive board after Cholnan Srikaew stepped down. He was keeping his promise to quit as party leader if Pheu Thai replaced Move Forward as leader of the new coalition.

Srettha said he had worked as Paetongtarn’s adviser before becoming premier, and he believes she has the potential and determination to work hard.

He added that Paetongtarn has gathered enough political experience and has established good ties with top party members.

Paetongtarn is the youngest daughter of Pheu Thai patriarch Thaksin Shinawatra.

“She can influence others’ decisions and has high leadership qualities,” Srettha said.

“So, I believe Paetongtarn is fully suitable to lead Pheu Thai. But it has yet to be seen which persons will be nominated for the post during the assembly on October 27.”

On Friday, Paetongtarn responded with a quick “yes” when reporters asked if she would be ready to lead the party.

• PM Srettha happy to play ‘salesman’ to bring foreign investment to Thailand

In just two months in office, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has taken on the role of a “salesman”, going out to attract investors and promoting Thailand's southern “Land Bridge” mega-project to advance Thailand's strategic objectives.

During an interview with The Nation's TV news channel, he shared insights about his first two months in office. He said during the past months, he had met with several neighbouring nations' leaders. The meetings were significant, including his participation in a major United Nations assembly in mid-September, where he engaged with numerous leaders.

One of his key areas of focus has been engaging with business leaders to discuss foreign investments in Thailand. He has visited Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, and Hong Kong, to engage with investors.

PM Srettha spoke of his discussions with China's President Xi Jinping, especially on basic infrastructure development in the Asean region with future infrastructure links to Europe and Africa. Srettha stressed the necessity of proposing new projects, particularly high-speed trains from Laos to Thailand, to facilitate regional connectivity.

He also talked about Thailand's southern “Land Bridge” mega-project, which could significantly enhance Thailand's strategic location to attract more foreign investors relocating their production bases to the country.

The PM said that discussions with Asean leaders had covered various topics, many of which were aligned with his government's policies on boosting investment and employment, aiming to expand the Thai economy by at least 5% in the next decade.

When asked about his upcoming overseas visits, PM Srettha said he would visit Laos on October 30, followed by a trip to San Fransisco on November 12 to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit. Srettha hopes to attract more foreign investments to Thailand.

Speaking of his title “salesman”, Srettha emphasised that maintaining equal relationships with all countries was crucial. Both the Cabinet and the Board of Investment need to prepare comprehensive data. Respectful and respectful dialogue from both sides would facilitate smooth negotiations, he said.

When questioned about the conflict between Israel and Hamas, particularly concerning assistance and guarantees for Thai workers, PM Srettha stated that discussions with Thai business groups, chambers of commerce, and industry associations had taken place. Thailand understands and sympathises over the loss of lives and is ready to offer assistance, he said. Thirty Thai nationals have died in the attack on Israel by Hamas.

Concerning the use of private negotiators to assist in discussions with business leaders and ensuring guarantees, Srettha stressed the sensitivity of the matter in freeing Thai hostages. There have been multiple background efforts, and numerous negotiations. He said Thailand had brought back some Thai workers, with many more expressing their desire to return home. Thailand is committed to ongoing efforts and anticipates progress by October 23, he said.

• Julaphan dismisses Move Forward’s claim digital wallet scheme coped from Japan

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat on Monday dismissed Move Forward’s claim that Pheu Thai’s digital wallet scheme had been modelled after a similar scheme in Japan.

He insisted that the scheme had been conceived by Pheu Thai on its own.

Julapun leads a subcommittee in charge of working out details on handing 10,000 baht to Thais via a Blockchain-based digital wallet and where this money can be spent.

The minister said he had heard a similar scheme had been implemented in Japan in 1999 when the government handed out shopping coupons to Japanese nationals.

Julaphan dismisses Move Forward’s claim digital wallet scheme coped from JapanHe said he would seek more details from Move Forward party-list MP Sirikanya Tansakul, who had raised the issue, so he could compare the digital wallet scheme to Japan’s 1999 programme in more detail.

“But I believe they can’t be compared as they were applied in different contexts,” Julapan said.

He also said the 10,000 digital wallet scheme for Thais aged 16 and above will begin in February as scheduled. The scheme will not be delayed because his committee’s meeting had been postponed from this week, he added. The meeting had been postponed because the panel was waiting for relevant government agencies to compile reports on legal complications and procedures related to the scheme, he said.

Julapun added that his panel required these reports before it could start convening and he did not know when this would be.