Somkid Jatusripitak To Become New President Of Coordinating Committee On Foreign Economy

[Jai Dee]

Somkid Jatusripitak to become new President of coordinating committee on foreign economy

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont has designated Somkid Jatusripitak (สมคิด จาตุศรีพิทักษ์), to be President of coordinating committee on foreign economy.

Dr. Veerachai Veeramethikul (วีระชัย วีระเมธีกุล), deputy Secretariat of Prime Minister, revealed that the premier has authorized the designation of Mr. Somkid as the President of coordinating committee on foreign economy.

The new responsibility of Mr. Somkid is to create right understanding on economic matters to foreign countries, especially self sufficiency philosophy.

Mr. Somkid will officially take his new position today at 11.00 hours at Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 15 Febuary 2007

[cclub75]

designation of Mr. Somkid as the President of coordinating committee on foreign economy.

What a nice lapsus.

It's rather "foreign economic relations committee".

http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/b...s.php?id=116820

Anyway, the circus about sufficiency economy continues at full speed. Cool.

"Sufficiency Economy ? Not enough words to explain it".

[thedude]

wasnt quitting politics enough punishment for Dr Somkid?

they seem hellbent on destroying him by making him explain sufficiency economy to foreigners. may god have mercy on him.

[Plus]

Ineresting reaction from Pridiyatorn - "Somkid WHO?" "Who appointed him?"

He sound like a very unlikely choice for sufficiency economy PR team. Or maybe it's a few of our posters who should get used to sufficiency economy being widely accepted in Thailand, even by Thaksin's own economic guru.

I think it's hoax, Fool's day press release issued prematurely.

[sriracha john]

Never a dull moment in Thai politics

Somkid was a co-founder of the Manager Media Group along with Sondhi Limthongkul.

Somkid was one of the co-founders of the Thai Rak Thai party in 1998.

In the the Thaksin Cabinet, he was Finance Minister, then Commerce Minister, then Deputy Prime Minister.

Somkid has been been called "the man behind Thaksinomics."

[Jai Dee]

Public Warning

Discussion of the sufficiency economy principles could get ThaiVisa into trouble with Thai authorities, in the area of lese majeste.

On behalf of the moderating team I respectfully request that you refrain from discussion of this issue.

Feel free to discuss the appointment of Khun Somkid though.

Thanks for your understanding.

[Old Man River]

Public Warning

Discussion of the sufficiency economy principles could get ThaiVisa into trouble with Thai authorities, in the area of lese majeste.

On behalf of the moderating team I respectfully request that you refrain from discussion of this issue.

Feel free to discuss the appointment of Khun Somkid though.

Thanks for your understanding.

Your guidance will, of course, be abided by, but it is a bit ironic that Thai authorities could have problems with a discussion of the sufficiency economic philosophy in Thailand, but appoint Dr. Somkid to have similar discussions on the sufficiency economic principles with foreign countries.

As Kurt Vonnegut used to say, "so it goes".

[hammered]

Now Somkid is aboard. Last week it was Suwat and Phinnij. Long before this Sonthaya (rejoining Banharn) and Somsak (new party rumors) decided to go their own way. Who will be next?

[Old Man River]

Now Somkid is aboard. Last week it was Suwat and Phinnij. Long before this Sonthaya (rejoining Banharn) and Somsak (new party rumors) decided to go their own way. Who will be next?

You really do have to appreciate the CNS for their divide and conquer methods. At this point, you can pick any former TRT politician, as they know the TRT dream is over.

[sriracha john]

And poor, sweet, lovely Sudarat without a date for the prom.

[wintermute]

Public Warning

Discussion of the sufficiency economy principles could get ThaiVisa into trouble with Thai authorities, in the area of lese majeste.

On behalf of the moderating team I respectfully request that you refrain from discussion of this issue.

Feel free to discuss the appointment of Khun Somkid though.

Thanks for your understanding.

Your guidance will, of course, be abided by, but it is a bit ironic that Thai authorities could have problems with a discussion of the sufficiency economic philosophy in Thailand, but appoint Dr. Somkid to have similar discussions on the sufficiency economic principles with foreign countries.

As Kurt Vonnegut used to say, "so it goes".

Ahh but he's the official talking head whose sole purpose is to shill it to foreign governments. I think what they don't realize is a lot of these "ignorant foreigners" (in the Thai point of view) are actually better educated and more savvy in business matters. It doesn't matter if they spin it like a commercial for Tide detergent because they need more than pretty words and philosophical catchphrases to prove their policy works. It's too bad heavy handed censorship is how they approach questions regarding legitimate economic conerns.

[marshbags]

Such Irony

Now this must be a right kick in the teeth for his previous master.

He really is feeling the implications with this appointment, ( Toxin ) don,t you think.

On the other hand let,s be mischievious and think negative.

What if Somkid is on a hidden agenda and infiltrating the enemy camp.

No, surely has more sense and self respect than that ???????????

As for S.J,s favourite " Rat ", we can only hope they keep her well out of the frame.

God she,s a slimmey one and definitely not to be trusted.

I get a sickly, billious feeling everytime i see her self satisfied hollier than thou look on the television.

marshbags

P.S.

I reckon he could be an asset to the economy and foreign investment providing he is transparent, genuine in his new role and puts his lawful / financial experience to the good of the country.

Edited February 15, 2007 by marshbags

[ovenman]

Ahh but he's the official talking head whose sole purpose is to shill it to foreign governments.

And let us not forget that The Shill's doctoral degreee is actually in marketing (i.e. selling it).

[Kan Win]

Thaksin's close aide appointed as chief economic team

BANGKOK, Feb 5 (TNA) – Former deputy prime minister and finance minister Somkid Jatusripitak has been appointed as the chief coordinator in international economic affairs tasked to give foreign countries properunderstanding of Thailand’s economic policy, particularly the sufficiency economy.

Somkid was one of key members under the previous government of deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. He resigned from the former ruling Thai Rak Thai party after the military coup in September and has kept a low profile since then.

Deputy Secretary-General to Prime Minister Veerachai Veerametheekul revealed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont signed an order to form the Committee on Coordination and Strengthening of International Economic Relations.

The committee chaired by Dr. Somkid will comprise 9 members and 5 advisors, most of whom are economic experts such as the director-general of the Foreign Trade Department and representatives of the Board of Investment, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the National Economic and Social Development Board.

He said the committee is tasked to coordinate and build proper understanding of Thailand’s economic policy among foreign countries.

The panel must travel overseas to keep the private, public, media, and academic members abreast of the Thai government’s economic policy. It would report directly to the premier.

However, the panel had no authority for policy-making. It had a duty to give foreign countries proper understanding of the government’s economic policy, which stresses on the sufficiency economy, he said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister Kosit Panpiemras said he viewed anyone could help work for the interest of the country no matter who he is.

Commerce Minister Krirkkrai Jirapaet said he had yet been informed of the appointment. However, he said he was glad to see more people join in to boost the performance of the government. (TNA) – E005

Earlier news above.

Latest news report below;-

http://etna.mcot.net/query.php?nid=27952

Former close Thaksin aide appointed economic team chief

BANGKOK, Feb 5 (TNA) – Former deputy prime minister and finance minister Somkid Jatusripitak has been appointed as the interim government's chief coordinator in international economic affairs tasked to give foreign countries proper understanding of Thailand’s economic policy, particularly the sufficiency economy.

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said Mr Somkid volunteered to help the government explain its economic policies to foreign investors, adding that the appointment had nothing to do with politics as he was qualified for the job since he enjoys good relations with foreign countries, China and Japan in particular.

As a key member of the previous government of deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as well as a close personal confidant, Mr Somkid was viewed by many as heir apparent in the earlier speculated Thaksin succession.

Mr Somkid resigned from the former ruling Thai Rak Thai party following the military coup in September and has kept a low profile since then.

Deputy Secretary-General to Prime Minister Veerachai Veerametheekul revealed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont signed an order to form the Committee on Coordination and Strengthening of International Economic Relations.

The committee chaired by Dr. Somkid will be comprised of nine members and five advisors, most of whom are economic experts--such as the director-general of the Foreign Trade Department and representatives of the Board of Investment, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the National Economic and Social Development Board.

He said the committee is tasked to coordinate and build proper international understanding of Thailand’s economic policy.

The panel must travel abroad to keep the foreign private, public, media, and academic community informed regarding the Thai government’s economic policy. It would report directly to the premier.

However, the panel had no authority for policy-making. It will have the duty of giving foreign countries proper understanding of the government’s economic policy, stressing on the sufficiency economy of His Majesty the King, he said.

Gen Surayud said later that the appointment had nothing to do with politics, adding that Mr Somkid was qualified for the job since he enjoys good relations with foreign countries, China and Japan in particular.

Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister Kosit Panpiemras said that in his opinion anyone could help work for the interest of the country, no matter what his background.

Commerce Minister Krirkkrai Jirapaet said he was glad to see more people join in promoting the performance of the government. (TNA) – E005, E006

Yours truly,

Kan Win

Edited February 15, 2007 by Kan Win

[Plus]

Who's left to stand with Thaksin in this darkest hour? Next we'll have Pojamarn promoting OTOP handbags under CNS label.

[wintermute]

Who's left to stand with Thaksin in this darkest hour? Next we'll have Pojamarn promoting OTOP handbags under CNS label.

Thai politics is pretty machiavellian. Now that the big mafia don is gone and new don(s) have been appointed all the capos and underlings are kissing the ring so they can assume a position in the hierarchy once more.

[Siripon]

I wonder how many potential cases of corruption might be swept under the carpet by this appointment. As Minister of Commerce Somkid certainly oversaw a slew of financial re-arrangements that could do with a closer view.

He also was supposed to be overseeing the rubber sapling scandal which has gone quiet.

Some say his brother is particularly close to a certain very prominent figure.

It looks like the junta are going for isolation of Thaksin, jump on board boys and you won't face prosecution.

Maybe there's no choice, too many are in it up to their necks.

[ColPyat]

Maybe there's no choice, too many are in it up to their necks.

And maybe there was never any serious intent to tackle corruption beyond rethoric, and the only thing that was it about was re-establishing power.

Look at it - not much talk about the drug war killings anymore either, continuation of many of Thaksin's populist programs, only now rebranded.

What actually has been achieved so far?

[asd]

He is a Good Man

Somkid Jatusripitak

Somkid Jatusripitak (born 15 July, 1953), Thai politician, is a former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand. His wife, Anurachanee Jatusripitak, teaches at Chulalongkorn University. He has two children.

Early life

Somkid was born in Bangkok and grew up in a large Chinese-Thai family, one of 10 children. One of his older brothers, Som Jatusripitak later became president of Siam City Bank and Commerce Minister in Chavalit Yongchaiyudh's government.

Education and academic career

Somkid graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from the Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University in 1972. He completed an MBA in Finance from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) and a Ph.D. in marketing from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

After graduating, he joined NIDA and became Associate Professor in the Faculty of Business Administration. Somkid's thinking was greatly influenced by Michael Porter's "Competitiveness of Nations". He focused much of his academic research on the development of national and business competitiveness. Along with his mentor Philip Kotler, he was a strong supporter of the concept of Nation Branding. In 1997, Somkid co-authored "The Marketing of Nations: A Strategic Approach to Building National Wealth" with Philip Kotler. The book outlined how countries could improve their competitiveness through marketing and appropriate policies to support it. Somkid's book, "Thailand Inc: Concepts and Strategy", stressed how Thailand should use marketing to improve its competitiveness.

Commerce Minister

In his term as Commerce Minister, Somkid

Oversaw the recovery of tourism industry in the Andaman coast after the tsunami of 2004

Agreed to draw up a comprehensive road map for increasing trade, investment and cooperatiion with the UK

Boosted Board of Investment incentives in three target sectors - electronics, petrochemicals and vehicle tyres

During the anti-Thaksin demonstrations of 2005-2006, Thaksin noted that Somkid was one of four individuals who might become Prime Minister if Thaksin stepped down.

In March 2006, during the height of the anti-Thaksin protests, Somkid underwent balloon angioplasty surgery to relieve a blood clot in an artery near his heart.

[Martin]

"He said the committee is tasked to coordinate and build proper understanding of Thailand’s economic policy among foreign countries.

The panel must travel overseas to keep the private, public, media, and academic members abreast of the Thai government’s economic policy. It would report directly to the premier."

Are there overseas papers that will give coverage to these briefings for the "public" and "media"?

Presumably, the Thai Embassy in each country where they give these briefings will issue press releases.

Let us hope that 'The Nation' and 'Bangkok Post' reprint them for our enlightenment.

[sriracha john]

Somkid an unlikely ally for Surayud in bid to discredit ex-PM

Thaksin Shinawatra has been kicked out of office. His Thai Rak Thai Party is about to be dissolved. His political allies, from Somsak Thepsuthin, Pinij Charusombat to Suwat Liptapanlop, are breaking away to form new alliances. The next goal of Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont is to dismantle the legacy of Thaksinomics once and for all.

And nobody is in a better position to poison Thaksinomics than Somkid Jatusripitak, once one of Thaksin's most trusted aides and his heir apparent.

Surayud's naming of Somkid as the chairman of the International Economic Coordination Committee came as a big surprise. In this fresh role, Somkid will become an official spokesman of the Surayud government in charge of propagating the sufficiency theory to the international community. He is also expected to mount road shows to explain the merits of the sufficiency theory to foreign governments, agencies and investors.

His Majesty the King has prescribed the sufficiency theory along the lines of a philosophical concept, which, similar to Buddhist doctrine, advocates a middle path. The sufficiency theory calls for Thais to adopt moderation and self-immunity from external forces as a way of life. It does not reject globalisation or the modern economy, but in a way it reflects risk management. To be sufficient is to have enough - not to have less, or not to have more than is within one's reach.

His Majesty also advocates Dharma virtue, which emphasises a higher standard than that set by western-style good governance. According to the principles of good governance, you must simply adopt transparency and the best practices in your dealings, while others must be able to check your actions. Still, you may get away with misdeeds even if you operate according to the strict guidelines of good governance. However, practising according to Dharma virtue means that you act according to your conscience to do things well, without prejudice or greed. As such, your actions can withstand any test, moral or related to good governance.

Somkid suggested in his speech delivered at the Sasin School of Business yesterday that sufficiency economics should become an integral part of Thailand's economic development.

Is he making a U-turn? Indeed, he is making a sharp U-turn for his own future.

Somkid was one of the architects of Thai Rak Thai's political marketing and populist policies, which led to the party's landslide election victories in 2001 and 2005. He served as finance minister and deputy prime minister in charge of economic affairs during the six-year reign of Thaksin. The village fund, the Bt30 healthcare programme, the debt moratorium programme for farmers comprised the policy bedrock and accounted for the political successes of the Thai Rak Thai Party.

Later on Thai Rak Thai added housing for the poor, cheaper loans such as those offered through the SML (Small, Medium, Large) programmes and other populist initiatives that grabbed votes. Somkid was also responsible for most of the tourism marketing programmes, which met with little success, such as the Bangkok Fashion City, Elite Card and Kitchen of the World projects.

Somkid was also a hardcore capitalist, advocating free-trade agreements, stock market promotion, unheeded privatisation, and targeting top-level export and GDP growth. Somkid and the Thai Rak Thai Party held to a two-pronged strategy: populist policies for the poor and full-fledged liberalisation and privatisation for the rich.

Relations between Somkid and Thaksin were far from smooth. As finance minister, he made several policy decisions and appointments of key people to the capital market, state enterprises and financial institutions that irked the CEO. As a result, he was sidelined as deputy prime minister. Still, at one point, people saw him as a candidate to succeed Thaksin if something went wrong with the CEO. But it was clear that Thaksin would not tolerate any heir apparent. Purachai Piumsombun was the first to be snubbed.

During the political crisis, Somkid kept a low profile. You never knew what was on his mind. On several occasions he wanted to break away from the dark shadow of the CEO, yet every time he could not bring himself to do so. Without Thaksin, he never could have had all of his political power and would have still been an ordinary academic.

For all the corruption scandals of the Thaksin regime, Somkid kept his mouth shut about the Shin Corp deal although he did come out to support Pojaman Shinawatra in her bid for the Financial Institution Development Fund's plot of land.

Since the coup he has rarely been in the news. Somsak Thepsuthin is trying to form a new party, the Machima Party (the Party that Walks the Middle Path), and he would like to have Somkid as its head. Somkid's image somehow is still good. Recent political talks have centred around whether Somkid really wants to become his own political master or whether he will ever escape from the shadow of Thaksin.

By agreeing to join Surayud, Somkid has sent a signal that it is time for him to stand on his own two feet. In the eyes of the local and international communities, the Surayud government's image has been rather poor.

After a series of policy mishaps that hurt its credibility, from the introduction of capital controls to the draft amendment of the Foreign Business Act, Surayud has found it necessary to try to boost confidence in his leadership.

Most important of all, the propaganda war between his government and Thaksin, who is now living in exile, is not over. Thaksin has been giving interviews to the foreign media as well as hiring foreign lobbyists and Edelman, the international public relations firm, to attack the military leadership and the Surayud government, depicting them as causing both political and economic harm to Thailand.

Thaksin's implicit message is that the sufficiency theory, unlike his free-for-all Thaksinomics, is the root of the current fatigue engulfing the country. The foreign media have taken a big bite by supporting his claim that Thaksinomics embraces globalisation and economic liberalisation, while the sufficiency theory, which advocates moderation and self-immunity, is trying to turn the clock back on Thailand.

It will be interesting to watch how Somkid will fight the propaganda war with his former political master. Thaksin must be d@mn mad by now.

- Thanong Khanthong, The Nation Opinion Page

Edited February 15, 2007 by sriracha john

[younghusband]

"The creatures outside looked from pig to man and from man to pig, and then from pig to man again;but already it was impossible to say which was which."

George Orwell

Animal Farm

[Maxwell Book]

So they kick out the government in an armed military coup. Then one by one, they put back those who were kicked out by force, back in charge. Can someone please explain the logic of all this?

So this guy was a close personal aid to one of Thailand's most corrupt, albeit elected, governments? And the new team is steadfast in their determination to rid the country of corruption, putting in anti corruption measures into the new constitution. Yet, at the same time, they are bringing back all the recent corrupt offenders.

I need some clarification from those wiser and more experienced in the Land of Smiles.

Please, I'm begging you!

[Old Man River]

Somkid an unlikely ally for Surayud in bid to discredit ex-PM

Relations between Somkid and Thaksin were far from smooth.

It will be interesting to watch how Somkid will fight the propaganda war with his former political master. Thaksin must be d@mn mad by now.

- Thanong Khanthong, The Nation Opinion Page

Good editorial by Thanong. Last night on his TV show, Sonthi said that Somkid was telling him long before the coup that he wanted out of the TRT, but he was afraid of Thaksin. Post Thaksin, Somkid has landed on his feet and will be a force in Thai politics for many years to come. The real question is not about Somkid, but rather where MR Pridiyathorn will end up.

[younghusband]

Somkid an unlikely ally for Surayud in bid to discredit ex-PM

Relations between Somkid and Thaksin were far from smooth.

It will be interesting to watch how Somkid will fight the propaganda war with his former political master. Thaksin must be d@mn mad by now.

- Thanong Khanthong, The Nation Opinion Page

Good editorial by Thanong. Last night on his TV show, Sonthi said that Somkid was telling him long before the coup that he wanted out of the TRT, but he was afraid of Thaksin.

As Mandy Rice-Davies once famously said. "Well,he would say that, wouldn't he".

Edited February 16, 2007 by younghusband

[Old Man River]

So they kick out the government in an armed military coup. Then one by one, they put back those who were kicked out by force, back in charge. Can someone please explain the logic of all this?

So this guy was a close personal aid to one of Thailand's most corrupt, albeit elected, governments? And the new team is steadfast in their determination to rid the country of corruption, putting in anti corruption measures into the new constitution. Yet, at the same time, they are bringing back all the recent corrupt offenders.

I need some clarification from those wiser and more experienced in the Land of Smiles.

Please, I'm begging you!

Corruption has always been a part of this culture and as it relates to corruption (and only as it relates to corruption) only the amount taken by the previous government differentiates it from governments before it. The current government is seeking to separate Thaksin from his previous supporters so that if he ever returns, his former TRT senior members will be so ensconced in different areas that they will have no incentive to return to him. In doing this, the CNS can cherry pick those it wants, and Somkid's economic experience puts him high on this list.

[Jai Dee]

Finance and Commerce Ministers are still working happily after appointment of Dr. Somkid

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pridiyathorn Devakula and Commerce Minister Krirkkrai Jirapaet reckon they can still work contentedly after Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont has appointed former deputy prime minister and finance minister Somkid Jatusripitak as the chairman of the newly-formed international economic affairs committee.

The two ministers who are overseeing the economic aspects of the country, M.R. Pridiyathorn and Mr. Krirkkrai, said the appointment of Dr. Somkid will not affect their works since they are unrelated. Furthermore, both ministers can openly work on the economic policies, and their positions are also higher than Dr. Somkid’s.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 16 Febuary 2007

[Martin]

"The foreign media have taken a big bite by supporting his claim that Thaksinomics embraces globalisation and economic liberalisation, while the sufficiency theory, which advocates moderation and self-immunity, is trying to turn the clock back on Thailand."

Well, the foreign media would, wouldn't they?

They are hardly likely to congratulate thailand for paddling backwards out of the narrowing creek up which the West has led the way.

Thaksinomics was useful till about 2004/5. But then it was time to simmer down on his credit-led boom, and start 'living within the country's means'.

This country is most fortunate in that it can live sufficiently full-well within its means.

What would be a disaster for it would be to follow the West into rampant consumerism.

[Chang_paarp]

Somkid graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from the Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University in 1972. He completed an MBA in Finance from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) and a Ph.D. in marketing from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

I appreciate that this totally out of context, but, to look at the gentleman's higher education from a different perspective.

If Somkid had studied at NIDA in Australia he could have rubbed shoulders with Bruce Berrisford, Peter Weir, Nichole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and Mel Gibson amongst others. (National Institute of Dramatic Arts)

Unfortunately I cannot look at Kellogg without thinking of corn flakes. It may well be a fine institution founded and/or supported by the family of cereal fame, but TS's record can blemish anyone by association.

[ThaiGoon]

Somkid graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from the Faculty of Economics, Thammasat University in 1972. He completed an MBA in Finance from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) and a Ph.D. in marketing from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

I appreciate that this totally out of context, but, to look at the gentleman's higher education from a different perspective.

If Somkid had studied at NIDA in Australia he could have rubbed shoulders with Bruce Berrisford, Peter Weir, Nichole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and Mel Gibson amongst others. (National Institute of Dramatic Arts)

Unfortunately I cannot look at Kellogg without thinking of corn flakes. It may well be a fine institution founded and/or supported by the family of cereal fame, but TS's record can blemish anyone by association.

I don't know what "TS"'s record you are talking about is, but Kellogg business school is one of the best in America. Right up there with Wharton, Stanford and a few others.

Edited February 16, 2007 by ThaiGoon