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A bus driver in Pattaya, Thailand, is being sought after he hit a foreign cyclist and then left the scene on May 8. The cyclist was injured in the accident, with a serious wound to his right arm. The incident was captured on video and shared on Facebook by Prak Pheaktra on May 10. The clip shows a light blue coach bus hitting the cyclist, who was riding with a friend on Pattaya Sai 2 Road. It has since attracted over 3,500 reactions and almost 600 comments from people globally. The video footage shows the bus veering slightly and hitting the cyclist, causing him to fall hard on his right arm. The injured man then rolled towards the roadside to avoid further danger from oncoming traffic. A passerby and a truck driver helped the man and drove him to the hospital. People have criticized the bus driver's recklessness online, while others are debating if the cyclist should've been biking on such a busy road. Boxer Sittichok Kaewsa-nga, a witness to the accident, told Daily News how shocked he was by the incident and questioned if the bus driver even knew what he had done. He said the cyclist sustained serious injuries to his right elbow, with the bone exposed. Officers at Mueang Pattaya Police Station have seen the video but as yet no formal police report has been filed by the cyclist. The search is now on for both the coach bus driver and the injured cyclist. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya's Elevator Upgrade Improves Accessibility for the Disabled Photo courtesy of The Thaiger An abandoned elevator outside the Pattaya Redemptorist Technological College for People with Disabilities, also known as the Phra Mahatai Centre, has been fixed. It now stands ready to improve access on Sukhumvit Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326976-pattayas-elevator-upgrade-improves-accessibility-for-the-disabled/

An abandoned elevator outside the Pattaya Redemptorist Technological College for People with Disabilities, also known as the Phra Mahatai Centre, has been fixed. It now stands ready to improve access on Sukhumvit Road. The repaired elevator symbolizes a new era of inclusivity, providing a safe route for people navigating the busy road. It holds promise for people with disabilities, the elderly, and young children, ensuring they can get around the city comfortably and with dignity. Unfortunately, many flashy infrastructure projects in Pattaya tend to fall into disrepair soon after their high-profile launches, leaving locals stuck in a maze of unfulfilled promises. However, there's a silver lining. Amid these disappointments, the Redemptorist Centre for Persons with Disabilities has stood out. They led the charge to fix the elevator, catching the attention of Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, who promised to correct past mistakes. Reacting to the charity’s demands, Mayor Poramet directed the city's Engineering Department to look into the failures of the overpass design, and to identify the reasons why the elevator broke down, according to the Pattaya Mail. The mayor made a commitment to steadfastly improve the city’s infrastructure and spare no expense to prevent future problems. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Key Suspects in Major Kidnapping Ring Arrested by Thai Police Photo courtesy of The Thaiger In a swift and decisive action today, the Thai police force made a considerable dent in the operations of a notorious kidnapping and murder gang. Three key suspects, tied to a series of high-profile crimes, were taken into custody. The announcement came directly from the head of the Crime Suppression Division, flanked by his deputies and fellow officers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326975-key-suspects-in-major-kidnapping-ring-arrested-by-thai-police/

In a swift and decisive action today, the Thai police force made a considerable dent in the operations of a notorious kidnapping and murder gang. Three key suspects, tied to a series of high-profile crimes, were taken into custody. The announcement came directly from the head of the Crime Suppression Division, flanked by his deputies and fellow officers. The arrested individuals are Thanawit, 44, Phaitoon, 38, and Ampila, 34. These men stand accused of charges as serious as premeditated murder, concealing a corpse, and receiving stolen property. The trail leading to the apprehension of these criminals began with a missing persons report. Sudarat, a 42-year-old woman, had been reported missing by her family on Valentine's Day last year. Sudarat, along with her white Toyota Fortuner, had vanished from her home in Nakhon Si Thammarat, a trail that led investigators right to the gang's operational base in Kanchana Buri. The discovery of the vehicle near the border and subsequent investigation unravelled a grim tale: Sudarat kidnapped, murdered, her body clandestinely buried behind a temple in Phrom Khiri district. This revelation hinted at a well-oiled organisation, each member assigned a role – some for the abduction and murder, others for the disposal of the victim's vehicle, selling it internationally, and yet another group for body disposal. Preceding today’s apprehension, there had been earlier arrests pertaining to this case. They including two gang members involved in the kidnap and murder and one responsible for hiding the body. The latest detainees include alleged gang leader, Thanawit and his accomplices Phaitoon and Ampila, all purportedly involved in the disposal of Sudarat’s vehicle. Speculation arises around the motive behind these horrendous crimes. Sudarat herself had no known enemies, yet her husband — a well-known drug agent — previously faced arrests over significant drug hauls. The accused criminals' backgrounds could suggest they were employed by a drug lord to carry out the despicable deed, though full details are yet to be disclosed. Nevertheless, their confessions have led to their handover to Chiang Klang police, awaiting further legal action. This bust exemplifies the Thai police’s unwavering dedication to dismantle criminal networks and ensure justice for heinous crimes. As the community holds its collective breath, further developments are expected to unfold while the legal proceedings take their course. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Surprising Statistics: Uncovering Thailand's Hidden Population Crisis File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Deputy Director of Thailand’s National Statistical Office (NSO), Suwannee Wangkan, has released some stunning population statistics; around 9.25 million people, or 13.2% of the country’s total 70 million population, live unofficially in Thailand. Most of them are drawn to Bangkok seeking employment and education opportunities. This hidden population highlights the increasing income inequality in the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326974-surprising-statistics-uncovering-thailands-hidden-population-crisis/

The Deputy Director of Thailand’s National Statistical Office (NSO), Suwannee Wangkan, has released some stunning population statistics; around 9.25 million people, or 13.2% of the country’s total 70 million population, live unofficially in Thailand. Most of them are drawn to Bangkok seeking employment and education opportunities. This hidden population highlights the increasing income inequality in the country. This unregistered population consists of two major groups: approximately 8.4 million people are non-registered and live outside their home province without proper registration, and 850,000 are commuters who travel daily for work or educational needs outside their familiar surroundings. More specifically, NSO data details that around 610,000 people commute daily for work in different provinces, and about 240,000 travel for educational needs outside their home location. Naturally, Bangkok is the most attractive destination, with 55.3% of the unofficial population commuting to study and 52.5% for work in this vibrant capital. Other regions that attract commuter students are Nakhon Pathom, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Khon Kaen. In terms of work commuters, Ayutthaya comes after Bangkok, with a 7.3% share, followed by Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, and Singburi. Wangkan stresses that these figures highlight Thailand’s educational and job inequity, urging government agencies to tackle the negative effects of this hidden population, such as overcrowded accommodation, strained public health services, and excess pressure on utilities, as reported by The Nation. Every year between October and December, the NSO conducts its annual migration survey. The survey's results are released annually to assist relevant departments in developing strategies for public welfare, education, healthcare, and utilities. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket intensifies measures against unlicensed and unregistered hotels File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has initiated a crackdown on illegal hotels in Phuket, as part of his ongoing effort to correct issues caused by influential figures, particularly in the Patong region. The investigation focused on venues operating in the manner of hotels, but lacking necessary licenses and legal documentation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326973-phuket-intensifies-measures-against-unlicensed-and-unregistered-hotels/

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has initiated a crackdown on illegal hotels in Phuket, as part of his ongoing effort to correct issues caused by influential figures, particularly in the Patong region. The investigation focused on venues operating in the manner of hotels, but lacking necessary licenses and legal documentation. A total of 19 establishments, equivalent to around 800 guest rooms, have been identified as operating without necessary permits. These venues, referred to as 'faux hotels', are mainly situated around Patong's Malin Plaza, a popular spot for night markets. The Kathu District Office was credited for unveiling these illegal operations. The illegal hotels are now under inspection by officials from various agencies, including police and administrative offices. Violation of the Hotel Act of 2004 can lead to a year in prison or fines up to 20,000 baht, with additional daily fines until legal compliance is achieved. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the negative consequences of these operations, such as jeopardizing guest safety and potential economic impacts like tax evasion and foreign investors dominating the market. He also expressed concern about the quality of services and staff at these unlicensed establishments. Local officials plan to legally address the issue while enforcing safety regulations. However, during their visit they also acknowledged the challenges faced by small hotel operators, who complained of regulatory changes, confusion, and long waits for licensing. To streamline registration process, appeals have been made to the Thai Prime Minister for support in resolving environmental and zoning problems impacting small hotels on the island. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Tops the List of Global Tourist Destinations for 2024 File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Minister Assigned to the Prime Minister's Office in Thailand, Chakrapong Saengmanee, has announced that Phuket has been recognized as the best tourist destination worldwide for 2024 by international media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326972-phuket-tops-the-list-of-global-tourist-destinations-for-2024/

The Minister Assigned to the Prime Minister's Office in Thailand, Chakrapong Saengmanee, has announced that Phuket has been recognized as the best tourist destination worldwide for 2024 by international media. This feat is credited to the continuous efforts of the country’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin. The Prime Minister paid four visits to Phuket, focusing on improving infrastructure and boosting the tourism standards to an advanced level. During these visits, the Prime Minister worked closely with local authorities to boost the overall growth of the tourism sector, including public utilities and transportation facilities. The goal is to provide tourists with safe and easy-to-use services for a better travel experience. According to Chakrapong, Phuket is not just an island enriched with natural beauty and lively local culture. It also provides excellent accommodation and dining facilities, ready to cater to a large number of tourists. Chakrapong explained that the international recognition Phuket has received is due to the relentless efforts of the local Phuket community and the government's ongoing support in upholding high standards and constant development. This makes tourism the prime and sustainable source of revenue for the country. He mentions that Phuket stands as a perfect example of how tourism can boost a country’s wealth, increase local community income and also enhance state revenue via taxes, which can further be used for the country's development. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Future of Thai Cannabis at Stake: Activists Defend against Reclassification Proposal File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google In a recent dispute that pits public health against political agendas, calls to reconsider the reclassification of cannabis as a type 5 narcotic illegal drug have emerged. These pleas come in response to Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's proposal to reinstate cannabis as a controlled substance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326971-future-of-thai-cannabis-at-stake-activists-defend-against-reclassification-proposal/

In a recent dispute that pits public health against political agendas, calls to reconsider the reclassification of cannabis as a type 5 narcotic illegal drug have emerged. These pleas come in response to Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's proposal to reinstate cannabis as a controlled substance. A powerful voice in the debate, Mr. Prasitchai Nunual, Secretary-General of the network for Shaping the Future of Thai Cannabis, criticised the proposal, instead advocating for comprehensive and scientific assessment of the substance. He urged the Thai Ministry of Public Health to provide factual comparisons of cannabis to legal substances, like alcohol and cigarettes. Prasitchai strongly condemned any moves to re-criminalise or regulate cannabis based on undue influences, while alleging that the proposal could serve the interests of specific capitalists within the Pheu Thai Party. This group, he claimed, aims to monopolise the market, making cannabis accessible only via their licensed plantations. Speaking at a press conference in Phuket, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, argued for a democratic approach to the policy change. Notably, he emphasised the significant investments of cannabis-supporter groups and the potential fallout if their interests are overlooked. The Deputy Prime Minister suggested a potential referendum as a means of ensuring all voices are heard in the debate. However, if the government remains intransigent, protesting at the Government House on the upcoming anniversary of the decriminalisation of cannabis has been threatened by concerned groups. Reflecting a sense of unity and diplomatic resolve, Anutin concluded by reminding the public that despite differences in party policy, every member respects the others' viewpoints, and the overarching goal remains serving the public's best interests. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Prime Minister Begins Diplomatic Tour in Europe and Japan Photo courtesy of NNT The Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, along with a team, is set to visit France, Italy, and Japan. During his visit to France, Thavisin intends to lead a group of Thai business leaders at the Thailand – France Business Forum & Roundtable. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326970-thai-prime-minister-begins-diplomatic-tour-in-europe-and-japan/

The Prime Minister of Thailand, Srettha Thavisin, along with a team, is set to visit France, Italy, and Japan. During his visit to France, Thavisin intends to lead a group of Thai business leaders at the Thailand – France Business Forum & Roundtable. He also plans to have discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron from May 15th to 16th. The purpose of these talks is to revisit earlier meetings and encourage teamwork in sectors like trade, investment, defense industry, and Soft Power. After France, Thavisin and his delegation will head to Italy from May 17th to 21st and visit Milan and Rome. Their agenda includes discussions with the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. They aim to boost cooperation in renewable energy, sports tourism, medical science, defense, and global projects regarding fashion and agricultural soft power. Thavisin's final stop will be Japan, where he will participate in the 29th Nikkei Forum Future of Asia in Tokyo from May 22nd to 24th. He is set to deliver a keynote speech to assure Japanese investors. This event presents an excellent chance to improve cooperation and bolster Japanese investments in Thailand. The focus will be on the stability of the country's economy and politics, and expansion of business opportunities. Thavisin's visits do not just aim to facilitate bilateral cooperation but also to improve the relationship between these countries and Thailand. There are hopes that the tour will also boost trade and investment opportunities. Photo courtesy of NNT -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Concerns rise over Thaksin's unofficial involvement in Myanmar's civil war File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing The former prime minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra, has tried to intervene in the civil war in Myanmar. He did this by secretly meeting with groups opposing the military regime. Irrawaddy online reports that these moves have not sat well with any of the parties involved, including Myanmar's military leaders. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326969-concerns-rise-over-thaksins-unofficial-involvement-in-myanmars-civil-war/

The former prime minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra, has tried to intervene in the civil war in Myanmar. He did this by secretly meeting with groups opposing the military regime. Irrawaddy online reports that these moves have not sat well with any of the parties involved, including Myanmar's military leaders. Thaksin has also requested permission to visit Myanmar to initiate discussions with the ruling military junta. So far, he has gotten no response. The Irrawaddy report reveals that between March and April, Thaksin and his team had separate meetings with several revolutionary groups. They included the Karen National Union, the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP), the Kachin National Organisation, and the National Unity Government (NUG), as well as the Restoration Council of Shan State. Myanmar's government spokesman Zaw Min Tun commented on these developments. He argued that it was inappropriate to encourage what he termed 'terrorist groups' that undermine Myanmar's interests. Moreover, Irrawaddy stated that during discussions with the NUG, Thaksin was only successful in interacting with mid-level officials from the shadow government. This was despite his wishes to meet with the top leaders. U Aung San Myint, the second secretary of the KNPP, gave his account of the situation in a discussion with Irrawaddy. He said Thaksin expressed his willingness to mediate in Myanmar's civil war during the meeting. "We did not make any deal with him. We mentioned to him that this is not the moment for dialogue. Our conversation revolved around the idea of humanitarian assistance, which could be useful amidst the ongoing conflict. No other issues were discussed," he stated. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Cyber Police Confiscate Illicit Pharmaceuticals and Sex Toys in Yala Raid Photo courtesy of The Thaiger In another significant episode of law enforcement, Thai Cyber Police have seized a large haul of illegal pharmaceuticals and sex toys from a 43-year-old vendor in Yala province, Thailand today. The raid, precipitated by an undercover purchase, took place at a second-hand car tent, believed to be the base for this expansive illegal enterprise. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326965-thai-cyber-police-confiscate-illicit-pharmaceuticals-and-sex-toys-in-yala-raid/

In another significant episode of law enforcement, Thai Cyber Police have seized a large haul of illegal pharmaceuticals and sex toys from a 43-year-old vendor in Yala province, Thailand today. The raid, precipitated by an undercover purchase, took place at a second-hand car tent, believed to be the base for this expansive illegal enterprise. The go-ahead for this operation came from the top of the Cyber Crime Investigation Division. With a search warrant in hand, issued by the Yala Provincial Court on yesterday's date, the division acted swiftly to clamp down on this illegal practice. The seized items include an alarming variety of sex-stimulating drugs, including 39 bottles of inhalants, six bottles of spray, and a dozen packs of male performance-enhancing pills. Also, officers found condoms, a trove of sex-toys, 96 sachets of jelly, 16 packs of brown tablets, four boxes and four sachets of sex-stimulating pills, 12 boxes of male enhancement gel, seven bottles of lubricant, and three bottles of male hygiene products. As the investigation progresses, bankbooks and a mobile phone were also impounded to be used as evidence. The genesis of this operation was an online reconnaissance mission by the Cyber Crime Division’s officers. They discovered advertisements untenably claiming to boost sexual arousal. This breadcrumb trail led them to a host of websites and social media accounts, including a Twitter account that brazenly advertised Viagra sales in Yala. An undercover purchase provided the irrefutable evidence needed for the successful application for a search warrant. The suspect, identified as Amnuay, was consequently arrested at his place of residence - the second-hand car tent. He is now under multiple charges, including advertising drugs as tonics or contraceptives, selling or importing modern pharmaceuticals without a permit, inputting false computer data likely to cause damage to others, and possession of pornographic materials for distribution or public display. Each of these crimes is a violation of the Computer Crime Act and the Penal Code. After his arrest, the local police took custody of Amnuay for further investigations and to initiate legal proceedings. This operation underlines the Thai authorities' resolute commitment to combat the illegal trade in pharmaceuticals and adult products. It sends a clear message that violations of the country's strict drug and cyber laws will not be tolerated and offenders will be prosecuted, ultimately ensuring the safety and well-being of Thai citizens. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Assets worth 44.6 million baht seized from corrupt former DSI chief Photo courtesy of The Thaiger The former chief of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Tarit Pengdit, known for alleged corruption, was dealt a major setback. The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has authorized the seizure of his assets, totaling 44.6 million baht. This significant move was announced yesterday by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and contributes to the ongoing investigation into Tarit's unknown wealth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326964-assets-worth-446-million-baht-seized-from-corrupt-former-dsi-chief/

The former chief of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Tarit Pengdit, known for alleged corruption, was dealt a major setback. The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has authorized the seizure of his assets, totaling 44.6 million baht. This significant move was announced yesterday by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and contributes to the ongoing investigation into Tarit's unknown wealth. NACC Secretary General Niwatchai Kasemmongkol reported that this is the second case of suspicious wealth involving Tarit, who has been held at Klong Prem Prison since last year. In 2017, authorities seized a massive 341 million baht in assets. This included possessions not only of Tarit's, but also of his wife Wassamon, his nephew Piyaruek Atthakarnrat, and others associated with the company Piyathanawat Co, which is owned by his close group. The recent action results from the NACC's decision to investigate further into Tarit's hidden wealth. Tarit could not justify his ownership of assets worth at least 53.5 million baht, found during the investigation. More individuals linked to Tarit's assets were also discovered, including Wassamon, who had some properties registered under the name Wanthana Pipatchaiyasiri. As a result, these people also faced asset confiscation. Following the findings of the NACC, the court decided to seize assets worth 44.6 million baht, out of the total 53.5 million baht noted in the plea. The seized assets consist of four properties and three cars, all owned by Tarit. Tarit faced serious consequences in 2017 as a result of his unexplained wealth, leading to his dismissal from civil service. His time at DSI was marked by claims of unusual wealth, as mentioned by the Bangkok Post. In addition, Tarit received a two-year prison sentence for malfeasance, because of his unjust murder charges against former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and former deputy prime minister Suthep Thaugsuban. These charges were connected to their handling of the political unrest that happened in 2010, as stated by Niwatchai. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand and Saudi Arabia partner to enhance health and wellness tourism Photo courtesy of The Thaiger Saudi Arabia's health and wellness tourism sector is expected to benefit greatly through planned collaborations with Thailand. Concurrently, hopes are that more skilled Thai labor will find work in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Commerce Minister, Majid bin Abdullah al-Kassabi, met with Thai health officials at the Public Health Ministry, including Minister Somsak Thepsuthin and Permanent Secretary Dr Opas Karnkawinpong. The purpose of the meeting was to talk about ways to bolster their public health partnership. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326963-thailand-and-saudi-arabia-partner-to-enhance-health-and-wellness-tourism/

Saudi Arabia's health and wellness tourism sector is expected to benefit greatly through planned collaborations with Thailand. Concurrently, hopes are that more skilled Thai labor will find work in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Commerce Minister, Majid bin Abdullah al-Kassabi, met with Thai health officials at the Public Health Ministry, including Minister Somsak Thepsuthin and Permanent Secretary Dr Opas Karnkawinpong. The purpose of the meeting was to talk about ways to bolster their public health partnership. Somsak pointed out that the collaboration would bring mutual benefits. He cited Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisi's visit to Saudi Arabia last October as an eye-opener to the possibilities of partnerships in the medical sector between Thai entrepreneurs and Saudi Arabia’s private sector. Somsak encouraged Saudi nationals to come to Thailand for its affordable, thorough medical services. He announced that Saudis seeking medical treatment, along with up to four companions, would be allowed to travel to Thailand. This would also encourage health tourism and establish Thailand as a vacation spot for Saudis. By way of showing willingness to cooperate, Thailand sent 42 doctors to Saudi Arabia to attend to medical needs of over 7,000 Thai Muslims making the Hajj pilgrimage. Al-Kassabi, in his response, recognized Thailand as a crucial partner. He said Saudi Arabia was interested in continued economic development and more partnerships. He disclosed that Saudi Arabia was studying Thailand’s advancements in public health, and also considering the possibility of Thai investors in Saudi Arabia's public health sector. On a separate occasion, al-Kassabi met with Thai Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn to talk about economic partnerships between the two nations. Pipat expressed the desire to send more Thai workers, particularly those skilled in the tourism and healthcare sectors, to Saudi Arabia. Al-Kassabi praised Thai workers for their international recognition. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Free Trade Agreement Nearing Completion Between Thailand and EU Photo courtesy of The Thaiger Thailand is close to concluding a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) within this year. The agreement, part of efforts to stop illegal and unruly fishing activities, came to light during the Europe Day 2024 celebrations in Bangkok, hosted by the EU embassy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326962-free-trade-agreement-nearing-completion-between-thailand-and-eu/

Thailand is close to concluding a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) within this year. The agreement, part of efforts to stop illegal and unruly fishing activities, came to light during the Europe Day 2024 celebrations in Bangkok, hosted by the EU embassy. Europe Day, celebrated every year on May 9, is a commemoration of European peace and unity. It also marks the anniversary of the declaration made by France's foreign minister Robert Schuman on May 9, 1950. Schuman's proposal aimed to avoid another Europe-wide war by ensuring joint efforts in the production of coal and steel. During the celebration, Jakkapong Sangmanee, the Minister to the Prime Minister's Office, said that the Thai government intends to finalize the FTA with the EU within the current year. He noted that this agreement would likely boost the economy in both regions, benefit businesses, and strengthen supply chains. Jakkapong assured that Thailand is ready to work with the EU for sustainable economic growth while pledging stronger efforts against unruly fishing activities. He stressed the importance of working closing with the EU on this matter, keeping in mind the focus on sustainable practices and preserving workers' livelihoods. David Daly, the EU Ambassador, also expressed the EU's readiness to collaborate with Thailand on the FTA talks. Observing that investments had increased on both sides, he highlighted that the EU is now the third-largest investor in Thailand, creating over 160,000 jobs. Furthermore, Daly suggested that the two parties can deepen their cooperation in areas like sustainable development, climate changes, and ocean management. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe