PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Reassures Safety of Chinese Tourists

[webfact]

Picture courtesy: Xinhua

 

In a bid to revive confidence among Chinese tourists planning to visit Thailand, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a personal safety assurance message. This move comes amid rising concerns that have led to numerous cancellations during the Chinese New Year period, a popular time for travel.

 

In an innovative approach, Ms Paetongtarn has announced she will use artificial intelligence to translate a video message into Chinese, directly addressing potential visitors. Her message will focus on assuring the safety and enjoyment of tourists, emphasising the quality of facilities available in Thailand.

 

"If they come to Thailand, they definitely will have fun," she stated, projecting optimism about the visitor experience in the kingdom.

 

These efforts follow a significant meeting at Government House aimed at countering fears and restoring Thailand’s image as a safe tourist destination.

 

The prime minister has labelled the current safety concerns as mere "rumours," possibly spread by ill-intentioned information operations (IOs). However, she did not elaborate on who might be orchestrating these narratives.

Recognising tourism as a vital economic pillar, Ms Paetongtarn stresses the importance of shielding it from such unfounded claims. She has directed security agencies to heighten their vigilance to safeguard tourists, reinforcing the country’s commitment to visitor safety.

 

Recent incidents, such as the disappearance of Chinese actor Wang Xing, later found in Myanmar, and a still-missing Chinese model, have contributed to unease. These cases have drawn public and media attention, pressing both Thai and Chinese authorities towards heightened dialogue and cooperation on tourist safety.

 

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong indicates that, despite the negative reports, foreign tourist numbers remain stable. Notably, cancellations predominantly arose from first-time visitors, showing the importance of maintaining a welcoming image for newcomers.

 

Reflecting international concern, top security officials from Hong Kong recently met with Thai counterparts to discuss safeguarding Chinese citizens in Thailand. Additionally, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged ASEAN nations to implement measures combating online scams and gambling affecting Chinese nationals.

 

ASEAN, a regional grouping that Thailand is part of, underscores its collaborative role in addressing such transnational issues.

 

China is Thailand's largest tourism market, with over 6.7 million Chinese visitors last year contributing significantly to the nation's foreign tourist revenue. The government is keely aware of the potential impact on this crucial sector and is taking decisive steps to ensure Thailand remains an attractive and trusted destination, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-01-18

 

 

[ChrisY1]

Assurances of safety for tourists is pure spin at best....a fabricated promise known to be meaningless!

No more tourist bus crashes....no more kidnaps...scams to end...nothing ever changes!

[JimHuaHin]

What did the great Bod Dylan say about propaganda?

 

Maybe the PM is planning to allocate an armed police person or soldier to protect every single Chinese tourist.

[MikeandDow]

This is what is called "grasping at straws"