Thread: Thailand and the new coalition government

Malaysia and Thailand to enhance power grid interconnection facilities

Malaysia and Thailand have announced plans to upgrade their existing power interconnection facilities, further solidifying a decades-long partnership in energy cooperation.

Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof said the collaboration underscores the strong history of technical cooperation and mutual trust between the two nations.

"We are all aware that the interconnection, commissioned in the early 2000s, is ageing. Its reliability has fallen below standards due to obsolescence, and our countries are finding it increasingly challenging to maintain the facilities.

"As Malaysia and Thailand progress in integrating more renewable energy into our grids, the reliability of our interconnection becomes even more critical,” Fadillah said after a courtesy call on Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, who also serves as the Energy Minister, at the Government House on Thursday (May 22).

Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, stated that Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) have completed feasibility studies for the upgrades.

These studies provide a solid technical framework and a clear path forward.

"This interconnection upgrade will facilitate more efficient and secure cross-border electricity exchanges and lay the foundation for future multilateral electricity trade under the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) initiative,” he added.

Meanwhile, Fadillah revealed that Malaysia has proposed purchasing up to 300 megawatts (MW) of firm electricity supply from Thailand to bolster the country’s energy security and flexibility amid rising domestic electricity demand.

He also emphasised Malaysia’s readiness to go beyond traditional bilateral energy exchanges and explore structured multilateral trading arrangements.

Malaysia and Thailand to enhance power grid interconnection facilities

PM orders immediate assistance, toxic water testing following Mae Sai floods

Paetongtarn mentioned the possibility of toxic substances contaminating the floodwaters in the northern province.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Saturday posted on her personal Facebook and X accounts, expressing concern over the sudden flooding in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province, after heavy rains caused floodwaters to surge into several areas.

Currently performing official duties in the United Kingdom, Paetongtarn mentioned the possibility of toxic substances contaminating the floodwaters in the northern province.

“I have received reports regarding the flooding in Mae Sai, which is caused by water flowing from Myanmar into Mae Sai near Wat Phromwihan,” she said. “I have instructed Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to urgently assist the affected communities.”

Paetongtarn also stated that she has instructed the Public Health Ministryu to visit the area to collect water samples and test for possible contamination, in order to alleviate public concern about the presence of toxins in the water.

“We will also conduct health checks for those affected and continue to monitor the situation closely,” she added.

The Prime Minister is currently in London, UK, and is scheduled to return to Thailand on Sunday, May 25, where her flight will land at Suvarnabhumi Airport before departing for Malaysia at 6:30 p.m.

The recent flooding in Mae Sai has raised concerns about waterborne diseases, particularly arsenic contamination, prompting officials to set up four temporary shelters at Mae Sai Municipality, Wat Phromwihan, Municipal School 1, and Mae Sai District Hall.

PM orders immediate assistance, toxic water testing following Mae Sai floods

Thai Prime Minister Champions Culinary Diplomacy in London Visit

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra promotes Thailand's 'Soft Power' strategy through cuisine whilst strengthening UK trade ties

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has arrived in London for a significant diplomatic mission centred on promoting Thailand's "Soft Power" strategy through its internationally celebrated cuisine, whilst simultaneously pursuing enhanced trade and investment partnerships with the United Kingdom.

During Thursday's visit, the Prime Minister presided over the launch of the revamped Thai SELECT logo at an event organised by "Team Thailand", led by Ekachat Seetavorarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, and Pornvit Silaon, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion.

The ceremony saw Paetongtarn present certificates to 20 accredited Thai SELECT restaurants, forming part of the Thai government's broader Soft Power initiative to expand the global reach of authentic Thai cuisine.

Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister emphasised the government's commitment to developing the Soft Power industry, particularly through Thai cuisine—a globally recognised cultural ambassador celebrated for its distinctive flavours, quality, and meticulous preparation standards.

"Thai restaurants abroad serve as front-line ambassadors for promoting Thai identity whilst simultaneously generating significant economic value," she said, highlighting the crucial role of establishing a robust international network of authentic Thai establishments.

Following the awards ceremony, Paetongtarn participated in a lively cooking demonstration of "Miang Kham," a popular Thai dish.

A chef from a certified Thai SELECT restaurant co-led the demonstration before an audience of more than 20 local influencers and media representatives.

The dish, which features an intriguing blend of diverse Thai ingredients including fruits and herbs, has gained popularity in UK Thai restaurants, particularly those operated by acclaimed British chefs drawn to its unique flavour profile.

Elevating Standards Through Thai SELECT

The Thai SELECT certification, administered by the Ministry of Commerce, identifies Thai restaurants and ready-to-eat products that maintain authentic Thai standards and flavours.

The programme's latest upgrade incorporates a "gold orchid star" symbol, representing international quality, authentic Thai taste, and exceptional dining experiences.

The certification operates across four levels: Thai SELECT Casual for informal establishments such as small eateries and food trucks; Thai SELECT 1 Star for quality fine-casual dining; Thai SELECT 2 Stars for upscale establishments; and Thai SELECT 3 Stars, the highest accolade for premium Thai restaurants.

Thai Prime Minister Champions Culinary Diplomacy in London Visit

Paetongtarn to return from Monaco Sunday evening, then depart for Malaysia

PM Paetongtarn returns from UK-Monaco trip Sunday evening, then heads to Malaysia for the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will return from her trip to the United Kingdom and Monaco on Sunday evening, before immediately departing for the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

The Prime Minister visited the UK and Monaco from Wednesday to Sunday to promote Thai products and the sport of Muay Thai. During the visit, she also held discussions with Formula One Group executives to explore the possibility of securing the rights to host a city-circuit Formula One race in Thailand.

Paetongtarn is scheduled to arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on Sunday evening. She will then travel from Don Mueang Military Airport to Kuala Lumpur, where the ASEAN summit will take place from Sunday to Tuesday.

Paetongtarn to return from Monaco Sunday evening, then depart for Malaysia

Tourism Ministry cracks down on illegal tours to restore trust

Tourism Ministry joins forces with military, police and civil agencies to tighten tourist safety and crack down on illegal tours and guides

Natreeya Taweewong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, has outlined the government’s comprehensive plan to ensure the safety of tourists in Thailand, an issue that remains a top priority.

Her statement comes in response to growing public concern, particularly over safety-related rumours circulated on social media. Many of these claims, she noted, are misleading or entirely false, creating unnecessary confusion and potentially affecting tourists’ travel decisions.

To address these concerns, the Ministry has partnered with relevant agencies—including the military, police, and civil authorities—to implement integrated safety protocols. These measures are designed to safeguard tourists from the moment they arrive in the country.

At airports, protocols are in place to assist travellers with lost property, including a dedicated support service operated by the Airports Authority and airlines to handle incidents resulting from official errors.

Immigration procedures are also supported by immigration police to facilitate smooth entry into the country.

For independent travellers, the Ministry provides guidance on using public transport with clearly displayed fares.

In major tourist destinations, safety is reinforced by the presence of police officers, Ministry officials, and trained tourism volunteers. Every tourist hotspot is covered by personnel offering assistance and oversight.

The Tourist Safety Operations Centre and Tourist Assistance Hotline (1155), along with the Thailand Tourist Police mobile application, are available for real-time emergency support. Tourist police vehicles also conduct 24-hour patrols to monitor key locations and assist when needed.

Addressing recent social media rumours about tourist abductions, Natreeya firmly clarified:

“There have been isolated cases of individuals using Thailand as a transit point, but these are not incidents involving tourists, nor are they related to the tourism sector. There is no evidence of any tourist abduction taking place in Thailand. We want to reassure all travellers that Thailand remains a safe destination. The Thai people stand united in welcoming and caring for tourists as honoured guests of our country.”

Tourism Ministry cracks down on illegal tours to restore trust

Thai PM Calls for New ASEAN Strategy to Tackle US Tariffs

Paetongtarn calls for regional unity and new approaches to counter global shifts and ensure economic resilience

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has urged ASEAN leaders to urgently re-evaluate their strategies and bolster regional unity.

Speaking at the 46th ASEAN Summit on Monday, Paetongtarn highlighted the significant impact of recent US tariff impositions, warning they are reshaping global trade dynamics and challenging the bloc's economic outlook.

The Prime Minister addressed leaders from nine ASEAN nations at the summit, hosted by Malaysia under the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability".

She stressed the meeting's critical timing, noting that global politics are shifting towards aggressive, self-serving policies and away from multilateral cooperation.

Paetongtarn emphasised that ASEAN must build integrated supply chain networks and deepen regional integration to navigate this volatile economic landscape.

She urged members to maximise existing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and explore new partnerships, while also strengthening Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Reaffirming Thailand's commitment to a transparent and fair multilateral trading system, she underscored the urgency of completing the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) by 2025.

This, she stated, would unlock new growth and demonstrate ASEAN's proactive stance in the evolving global trade and investment environment

Paetongtarn also advocated for a people-centred approach to improve citizens' quality of life and enhance human security across all dimensions, from health and food security to combating transnational crime and natural disasters.

She pushed for strengthening tourism, fostering cross-border infrastructure, and promoting shared cultural heritage. Looking to a sustainable future, the Prime Minister called for a "Green ASEAN".

Thai PM Calls for New ASEAN Strategy to Tackle US Tariffs

Thailand signs Kuala Lumpur declaration to drive ASEAN vision 2045

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra signed the Kuala Lumpur declaration on Monday, promoting ASEAN’s security, green economy, and sustainable labour development.

At Conference Hall 3 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) in Malaysia, ASEAN leaders formally signed the “Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.”

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is chairing ASEAN this year, was the first to sign, followed by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, the incoming ASEAN chair for next year.

The other member states signed in alphabetical order. The Thai Prime Minister signed sixth, immediately after Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

Following the signing, the Malaysian Prime Minister handed the signed Kuala Lumpur declaration to the ASEAN secretary-general and posed for a group handshake in the traditional ASEAN way.

Thai government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap explained that the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its related strategic plans—collectively referred to as “ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future”—cover politics and security, economy, socio-culture, connectivity and institutional strengthening.

The aim is to establish a strong, innovative, dynamic, and people-centred ASEAN community.

Thailand signs Kuala Lumpur declaration to drive ASEAN vision 2045

Thai Exports Surge for Tenth Month, Defying US Tariff Fears

Bangkok reports robust 10.2% growth in April, boosting confidence in economic strength and swift US trade deal

Thailand's exports continued their impressive upward trajectory in April 2025, marking the tenth consecutive month of growth and showcasing the enduring strength of the nation's economy.

According to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, total export value for the month reached $25.625 billion, an increase of 10.2% year-on-year.

The consistent performance reflects a robust Thai economic sector, even amidst previous concerns regarding potential US tariff impacts.

Excluding oil, gold, and military supplies, exports still expanded by 7.1%, primarily driven by strong demand for industrial and agro-industrial products.

"Many had predicted that US tariffs would cause Thai exports to plummet, but the figures prove that this is not true," Minister Pichai stated. "We continue to grow steadily, especially in the US market, which expanded by a remarkable 23.8% and has seen continuous growth for 19 consecutive months."

Overall exports for the first four months of 2025 jumped by 14.0%, or 12.1% when excluding oil, gold, and military supplies.

The Commerce Minister highlighted that under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's seven-month tenure, exports have seen a 12.5% expansion, a level not observed in decades.

Global Market Momentum and Future Outlook

Thailand's key export markets have also demonstrated sustained growth.

Alongside the robust US performance, ASEAN markets expanded by 7.8% (two consecutive months), South Asia by 8.7% (seven months), the European Union by 6.1% (eleven months), Japan by 5.5% (two months), and China by 3.2% (seven months).

Expanding product categories include computer equipment, rubber products, electrical circuits, gems, and switchboards.

Thai Exports Surge for Tenth Month, Defying US Tariff Fears

Thai exports grew for ten consecutive months up to April

Tracking return of 16 Thai artefacts from US museums to Thailand

Thailand is actively pursuing the return of 16 valuable Thai artefacts currently held in US museums, strengthening efforts to preserve the nation’s cultural heritage.

Thailand has decided to pursue the return of an additional 16 historical and exquisite art objects currently held in various museums across the United States. The following are some key pieces identified so far: in the link

The initiative to recover an additional 16 artefacts was disclosed during the 1/2025 meeting of the Committee for the Recovery of Thai Antiquities from Abroad, chaired by Sudawan Wangsuphakitkosol, Minister of Culture. The meeting took place on May 27, 2025.

The meeting reviewed progress on recovering the Prakhon Chai group of artefacts following the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco’s complete removal of four Thai antiquities from its collection registry in preparation for their return to Thailand. These items include three Bodhisattva statues and one Buddha statue.

“Next, the Fine Arts Department will collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the Consulate-General in Los Angeles coordinating the return process. The handover schedule will await the official announcement by the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco. It is expected that the Prakhon Chai artefacts will be repatriated to Thailand within this year,” said Sudawan.

These four artefacts are part of a group of sculptures discovered in Prakhon Chai District (now Chalerm Phra Kiat District), Buriram Province, which were illicitly removed from the country in 1964.

Tracking return of 16 Thai artefacts from US museums to Thailand

No mid-term PM change: Thaksin assures coalition stability

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said the only possible scenario might be the dissolution of parliament to allow the people to decide anew, but this is not expected to happen anytime soon.

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra gave an interview on Tuesday, May 27, at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) to address rumours that he would flee the country before June 13 — the date when the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders is scheduled to hold a hearing about his medical stay on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital during his prison sentence after returning to Thailand in August 2023.

Thaksin dismissed the rumours, saying, “I don’t pay much attention to the rumours because a rumour is news that people want to be true, which mostly isn’t true.” He advised people not to focus too much on these rumours.

When asked whether he would attend the hearing on June 13, he said he was consulting his lawyer and that attending would be a matter of cooperating with the court. “If the court needs information, I’ll provide it,” he added. He planned to decide by midnight on June 12 and told journalists, “There’s nothing to be excited about — journalists shouldn’t be more excited than I.”

When asked about the view that he would not flee the country because his daughter is the Prime Minister, Thaksin firmly denied this, explaining that he had returned from the exile to work after receiving a Royal Pardon to reduce his sentence and to use his knowledge to help the people, a responsibility he must respectfully accept.

No mid-term PM change: Thaksin assures coalition stability

Paetongtarn discusses with Hun Manet after Thai-Cambodian border clash

Thai PM emphasizes that both countries understand the situation and are working together to resolve it quickly

On May 28, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the recent border clash between Thai and Cambodian soldiers at Chong Bok, Ubon Ratchathani. She confirmed that she has been in contact with the Ministry of Defense and has also spoken with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, emphasizing that both countries understand the situation and are working together to resolve it quickly.

"We don't want this to escalate,” she added.

When asked if the relationship of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra with Cambodia would help in resolving the issue, Paetongtarn responded that her relationship with the Cambodian Prime Minister is already good.

According to reports from the border security agency, the clash occurred at 5:45 a.m. on Wednesday, with both Thai and Cambodian soldiers involved. The area is an undemarcated border zone, with overlapping territorial claims from both nations.

More in the link: Paetongtarn discusses with Hun Manet after Thai-Cambodian border clash

Paetongtarn unveils strategies to boost economic growth to 2.3–3.3%

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra introduces six strategies and one key initiative to drive and stabilise the economy, forecasting growth of 2.3–3.3%.

During the first reading of the annual expenditure budget bill for fiscal year 2026 in Parliament, the Prime Minister outlined the bill’s objectives, emphasising stable economic growth, advancing the production and services sectors, improving national infrastructure, and fostering economic opportunities and social equality.

The policy also prioritises quality of life, environmental sustainability, and national security.

She highlighted that these goals align with the national strategic framework, master plans, and key government policies previously presented to Parliament to ensure tangible benefits for the public.

Citing an economic outlook report from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) on February 17, Paetongtarn noted that Thailand’s economy is projected to grow by 2.3–3.3% in 2025, driven by government investment, domestic consumption, and a revival in the tourism sector.

However, she acknowledged existing challenges, such as high household and business debt, as well as risks stemming from US trade restrictions, geopolitical conflicts, and agricultural sector volatility.

Inflation is expected to range between 0.5–1.5%, with the current account surplus anticipated to be around 2.5% of GDP.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister stated that economic growth in 2026 is forecasted to remain within the 2.3–3.3% range, supported by continued consumer spending, private sector investment, and the ongoing recovery of the tourism industry.

Nevertheless, global trade barriers, geopolitical instability, and climate change remain key risks to economic expansion. Inflation in 2026 is estimated to stay within 0.5–1.5%, while the current account surplus is projected to reach approximately 2.3% of GDP.

As of March 2025, Thailand’s outstanding public debt stood at 12.08 trillion baht, equivalent to 64.4% of GDP. This remains within the legal fiscal discipline framework, which sets a ceiling of 70% of GDP for public debt management.

The national treasury balance, as of April 30, 2025, totalled 252.12 billion baht.

Paetongtarn stated that the government would maintain a prudent level of treasury reserves and ensure effective management of state revenue and expenditure for maximum public benefit.

She noted that Thailand’s financial outlook faces increased risks due to global trade policies, while general inflation trends downward, supported by declining global crude oil prices and government measures to ease living costs and reduce business expenses.

Monetary conditions remain tight, prompting the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee to vote in favour of a policy rate reduction to 1.75% per annum at its April 2025 meeting. This decision aligns with economic trends, addresses heightened risks, and ensures an appropriate financial environment given evolving inflationary pressures.

Regarding Thailand’s external financial position, the nation maintains strong foreign exchange reserves, which stood at US$237.04 billion as of December 31, 2024—approximately 2.4 times the country’s short-term external debt, a level considered robust.

In light of prevailing economic conditions, Paetongtarn stated that the government would pursue a deficit budget policy in the 2026 fiscal year to uphold economic stability, support recovery, and sustain an appropriate growth trajectory.

Projected net revenue from tax collection, state enterprises, and other sources is estimated at 3.06 trillion baht, reflecting a 1.3% increase from the previous year. After deducting 141 billion baht for local government VAT allocations, net revenue available for government expenditure amounts to 2.92 trillion baht.

To balance the fiscal deficit, the government plans to secure a loan of 860 billion baht, bringing total revenue for the fiscal year to 3.78 trillion baht—matching the total expenditure budget.

Paetongtarn unveils strategies to boost economic growth to 2.3–3.3%

Paetongtarn explained the budget allocation for the 2026 fiscal year, structured around six strategic priorities and one key initiative:

• National security – The government has allocated 415.32 billion baht, accounting for 11.0% of the total budget, to ensure national stability and security.
• Enhancing competitiveness – A budget of 394.61 billion baht (10.5% of total spending) has been designated to foster economic growth and strengthen Thailand’s competitive position sustainably.
• Human resource development – With an allocation of 605.92 billion baht (16.0% of the budget), the government aims to improve education, instil ethical values, and enhance the quality of life for citizens.
• Social equity and opportunity – The largest allocation, 942.70 billion baht (24.9% of total spending), is set aside to ensure equitable access to welfare and public services while reducing social disparities.
• Environmental sustainability – A budget of 147.21 billion baht (3.9%) will support conservation, resource management, and initiatives promoting a green and maritime economy, climate resilience, pollution control, and water management.
• Public sector reform – With an allocation of 605.44 billion baht (16.0%), the government seeks to modernise the civil service, enhance efficiency through digital transformation, and combat corruption.

Paetongtarn further elaborated on the budget allocation for government operations, which totals 669.36 billion baht, representing 17.7% of the total budget. This funding is set aside to cover unforeseen emergencies, public debt management, and treasury reimbursements. The allocation includes:

• Emergency and contingency management – 123.96 billion baht is reserved for urgent government needs, disaster relief, infrastructure compensation, and economic stabilisation measures, ensuring fiscal discipline.
• Public debt management – 421.86 billion baht is dedicated to efficiently managing and repaying public debt to optimise economic benefits.
• Treasury reimbursement – 123.54 billion baht is allocated for treasury repayments, covering previous expenditures.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the 2026 fiscal budget, totalling 3.78 trillion baht, aims to drive sustainable economic growth and improve citizens' quality of life while maintaining economic stability through a deficit budget policy amid global economic challenges.

The budget is strategically allocated to key areas, including national security, competitiveness, human development, social equity, environmental sustainability, and public sector reform, ensuring effective spending for maximum public benefit.

"This budget bill aims to ensure the nation progresses with stability, allowing citizens to truly benefit from government spending and achieve tangible and lasting national development," Paetongtarn concluded.

Paetongtarn unveils strategies to boost economic growth to 2.3–3.3%

PM stresses deficit budget needed to stimulate the economy

Public health minister vetoes Medical Council ruling

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has rejected the Medical Council’s decision to discipline three doctors over their handling of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s stay on the 14th floor of the Police General Hospital (PGH), from mid-August 2023 until February last year.

According to the ISRA News Agency, Somsak’s decision was sent to the council on Wednesday.

On May 8, the Medical Council decided to suspend temporarily the medical licenses of Pol Lt-Gen Sophonrat Singhacharu, former chief doctor at the PGH, and Pol Lt-Gen Thaweesilp Wechvitarn, the incumbent chief doctor at PGH.

The third doctor, Dr. Ruamthip Supanan, of the Corrections Department’s hospital, was issued with a warning.

The council dismissed the charge against a fourth doctor, Dr. Wattanachai Mingbancherdsuk.

In rejecting the council’s ruling against the three doctors, Somsak, in his capacity as special chair of the council, claimed that their conduct did not constitute a breach of medical ethics.

A well-informed source noted that Somsak based his judgement on their actions being matters of discretion, pointing out that discretion is not a matter that can easily be judged as to whether it is right or wrong. In medical practice, the use of discretion by a doctor can be judged by taking into consideration the standard of treatment and impact on the patient.

After having taken into consideration the facts and evidence from the investigation, and opinions from all parties concerned, the three doctors did not breach medical ethics, under-perform or give any false information, said the source, quoting Somsak’s opinion.

The three doctors’ opinions were those pertaining to the care of a post-operative patient, who was suffering from several illnesses, and these opinions are standard for doctors in general in the aftermath of a surgery, the source quoted as being Somsak’s reasoning.

The Medical Council had ruled, however, that there was no empirical evidence to suggest that the patient, Thaksin, was in a critical state of health.

The council will now require two-thirds of its 70 members to uphold its decision to discipline the three doctors.

Public health minister vetoes Medical Council ruling

PM congratulates Nation TV on its 25th anniversary, praising its reliable information

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra congratulated Nation TV on its 25th anniversary on Friday, revealing that she regularly follows the channel as a trusted source of quality news and information.

The Prime Minister also honoured the anniversary event held at the Nation Group headquarters in Bangkok’s Bang Na district.

She was accompanied by Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Higher Education Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi, Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol and Industry Minister Akanat Promphan.

Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsap explained that the Prime Minister presented a congratulatory bouquet on the occasion of Nation TV’s 25th anniversary.

The ceremony was attended by executives from Nation Group (Thailand), including Marut Arthakaivalvatee, Chairman; Shine Bunnag, Chairman of the Executive Committee and CEO; Somchai Meesen, Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee; Bakkabun Boonlert, Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee and Chairman of Thansettakij Multimedia; and Weerasak Pongaksorn, Managing Editor.

The Prime Minister then expressed her congratulations on the success and stability that Nation has maintained as a prominent part of Thai society for many years.

She mentioned that she has consistently followed the content provided by Nation, particularly its analysis of news from diverse and comprehensive perspectives. This has made Nation one of the most trusted and reliable sources of quality news and information.

The Prime Minister further stated that, should there be any significant political developments or special cases in the future, she is ready to engage in discussions or contribute to the exchange of viewpoints, in order to enhance the presentation of well-rounded and valuable news for the public.

"On this anniversary, I wish everyone at Nation good health, strong spirits, and continued inspiration in their work. I hope you will adapt and grow alongside the rapidly changing world with stability and grace,” Jirayu quoted Paetongtarn as saying.

“May Nation continue to be a beacon of thought, a voice for the people, and a driving force in pushing Thai society towards a brighter future.”

PM congratulates Nation TV on its 25th anniversary, praising its reliable information

Trade talks with the US must continue despite tariff ruling: Thaksin

Thailand must press ahead with trade negotiations with the United States, despite a US trade court ordering a halt to certain tariff policies, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said on Friday.
Although a federal appeals court on Thursday temporarily reinstated the most sweeping of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs, Thaksin stressed in an exclusive interview with Nation Group that Thailand should continue with its tariff negotiations.

“We are currently engaged in negotiations at various levels, and the conditions previously imposed have now been somewhat relaxed, allowing us to negotiate more effectively,” he said.

When asked whether he would be able to assist with the negotiations personally, Thaksin replied that he would likely contribute domestically, as his request for permission to travel abroad and meet Trump face-to-face had been denied.

Asked about the current slowdown in public investment and how the government plans to address it, Thaksin said discussions had already taken place with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), noting that Thailand’s economic outlook is closely tied to the performance of the capital market.

He emphasised the urgent need to improve transparency, enforce penalties against wrongdoers, and address issues such as high-frequency trading and the use of robot trading systems, which often disadvantage retail investors.

“These issues must be tackled swiftly to restore investor confidence,” he said.

Trade talks with the US must continue despite tariff ruling: Thaksin

FY2026 Budget Bill clears first reading in 322–158 vote

The PM thanked lawmakers after the House passed the FY2026 budget bill in its first reading, vowing to maximise its impact despite fiscal constraints.

The House of Representatives concluded its special parliamentary session with the first reading of the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Bill, approving the draft legislation with a total allocation of 3.78 trillion baht on Saturday ( May 31).

After extensive debate, lawmakers voted to pass the bill in principle. Of the 482 members present, the vote was 322 in favour, 158 against, with 2 abstentions.

The House also approved the formation of a 73-member ad hoc committee to further scrutinise the bill in subsequent readings.

Government Holds Majority Backing

The ruling coalition currently commands 324 seats, including:

Pheu Thai Party: 142 seats

Bhumjaithai Party: 69 seats

United Thai Nation Party: 36 seats

Klatham Party: 26 seats

Democrat Party: 25 seats

Chart Thai Pattana Party: 10 seats

Prachachat Party: 9 seats

Chart Pattana Party: 3 seats

Thai Ruam Palang Party: 2 seats

Thai Liberal Party: 1 seat

New Democracy Party: 1 seat

The opposition bloc holds 171 seats, comprising:

People's Party: 143 seats

Palang Pracharath Party: 20 seats

Thai Sang Thai Party: 6 seats

Fair Party: 1 seat

Progressive Thailand Party: 1 seat

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her gratitude to the House of Representatives for its cooperation in deliberating the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Bill, affirming that the government had submitted the proposal with full awareness of the nation’s fiscal constraints, ongoing global economic challenges, and geopolitical tensions.

She emphasised that the government had taken into account factors such as trade protectionism by major economies, the state of the global economy, and domestic economic conditions—all of which pose challenges but can be addressed through effective policies. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the proposed budget would help improve the quality of life for all Thai citizens and stressed that the government views the national budget as a key instrument for driving economic recovery.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strategic budgeting, prioritising urgent issues, enhancing human capital, upgrading infrastructure, and aligning efforts with the national development strategy.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that the FY2026 budget was designed to promote sustainable economic recovery, reduce inequality across all dimensions, and ensure fair and inclusive development. She underscored the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline and called on the newly appointed House Budget Committee to incorporate the comments and observations raised by MPs into the budget revision process with thoroughness and transparency.

Speaking about the global context, Prime Minister Paetongtarn acknowledged the dynamic nature of international politics and economics. Drawing from her recent meetings with foreign leaders, she noted that while each country faces different impacts, many are open to cooperation. She described the current global shifts as complex and challenging, making it difficult to pinpoint definitive solutions, but reaffirmed her administration’s determination to push forward every policy with full effort to revitalise the economy.

“We aim to reduce household expenses, increase incomes, and expand opportunities. The funds allocated through this bill will be used to maximise public benefit,” she said, adding, “I fully understand that the people did not elect Pheu Thai to do something easy. The government’s role is to govern, and the opposition’s role is to scrutinise. If both sides are focused on the people’s interests, I am confident we can lead the country through this crisis—and succeed together.”

Following the first reading, the second reading of the budget bill will be carried out by a 73-member ad hoc committee, appointed by the House of Representatives. This stage involves a detailed examination of proposed expenditures and operational plans submitted by each government agency.

The Budget Bureau will provide comprehensive documents to support the review process, including justifications for proposed allocations. Government agencies will also be given the opportunity to present and clarify the rationale behind their budget requests before the committee.

Once the committee completes its review, the bill will return to the House for consideration in a section-by-section review during the second reading.

In the third reading, the House will vote to either approve or reject the final version of the bill. No further debate is permitted at this stage.

If approved, the bill will then be submitted to the Senate for further deliberation in accordance with the legislative process.

FY2026 Budget Bill clears first reading in 322–158 vote

House passes first reading of 2026 budget bill