Trump chickens out again.

[Lite Beer]

’88 Generation’s Ko Ko Gyi Joins Suu Kyi’s Party to Run in Polls
By AUNG HLA TUN

RANGOON — A leader of student protests in Burma in 1988 that grew into a nationwide pro-democracy movement will run in a general election in November for opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s party, a party spokesman said on Sunday.

Full Story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841796-88-generations-ko-ko-gyi-joins-suu-kyis-party-to-run-in-polls/

[Lite Beer]

Myanmar still on UN child-soldier list

RANGOON: -- Myanmar’s military is still included on a list of organisations recruiting child soldiers, despite efforts to end the practice, UN envoy Leila Zerrougui said at Unicef’s Yangon office.

Full Story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841798-myanmar-still-on-un-child-soldier-list/

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Ex-Separatist Leader Pledges to Help Thai Govt Fight Southern Rebellion
Khaosod English


Recently-released ex-separatist leader Haji Sama-ae Thanam, 63, speaking to reporters on 18 July 2015 in Pattani.

PATTANI — A former separatist leader recently freed from prison has vowed to assist the Thai government's effort to quell the secessionist movement in Thailand's southern border provinces.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841802-ex-separatist-leader-pledges-to-help-thai-govt-fight-southern-rebellion/

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CDC: red-carding authority going to court because of neutrality, witness protection

BANGKOK, 20 July 2015 (NNT) – The Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC) has indicated that the decision to transfer the authority to red-card election candidates to the court is due to the latter's independence, neutrality and speed as well as the ability to protect the identity of witnesses.

According to Khamnoon Sitthisamarn, spokesperson of the CDC, red-carding results in a severe penalty and has life-long effect on election candidates, and thus the red-carding power should be handed to the Court of Justice as it had independence, neutrality, ability to work speedily and the ability to discreetly process cases for the sake of witness protection.

General Lertrat Rattanawanich, another CDC spokesman, disclosed that most members of the CDC also voted in favor of amending the stipulations found in the B.E. 2540 and 2550 constitutions related to the right and duty of citizens in casting votes. The aim of the amendment is to promote people's participation in governance. Under the proposed amendment, those who will not be casting their ballots at elections and referendums must inform the Election Commission in advance of their reason in order to avoid losing their political rights.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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NLA subcommittee suggests delaying petroleum grants until relevant laws are updated

BANGKOK, 20 July 2015 (NNT) – Dr. Poldej Pinpratheep, deputy chairman of the National Legislative Assembly's (NLA) input-seeking subcommittee, has expressed the view that the upcoming round of petroleum concession granting should be delayed until relevant laws have been updated.

Speaking at a seminar on the draft petroleum bill and relevant laws, Dr. Poldej said that the draft laws did not cover all aspects relevant to petroleum concession, and that it would be of benefit to gather public opinion before the draft bill is forwarded to the NLA for processing. He said doing so would ensure the highest gains for the public and the government and also ensure the legitimacy of the bill.

The NLA's study panel on law enforcement problems, after studying the problems associated with the enforcement of the B.E. 2514 Petroleum Act and the B.E. 2514 law on monetary gains from petroleum, expressed its view that the laws should be improved before the new round of petroleum concession granting takes place. It also suggested that information relevant to petroleum affairs be divulged to the public.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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Police: 4 killed in NY wine country when pickup hits limo

CUTCHOGUE, N.Y. (AP) — A 55-year-old Long Island man pleaded not guilty Sunday to driving while intoxicated after his pickup truck crashed into a limousine carrying eight young women, killing four, law enforcement officials said.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841806-us-police-4-killed-in-ny-wine-country-when-pickup-hits-limo/

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Beijing police detain 4 for sex video that spread online

BEIJING (AP) — Four people have been detained in connection with a sex video purportedly taken inside a Uniqlo fitting room that spread rapidly online, Beijing police said.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841803-beijing-police-detain-4-for-sex-video-that-spread-online/

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MOTS visits Trat, lays down tourism plans

TRAT, 20 July 2015, (NNT) -The Minister of Tourism and Sports Korbkan Watnawarangkul has visited Trat, to discuss with officials policies for further developing the local tourism scene.

The Minister disclosed tourism policies at the province's administrative office. Trat is being promoted as one of the twelve provinces in the Tourism Authority of Thailand's "Must Visit Cities" campaign. Minister Korbkan included a visit to the province's bus terminal, to see first hand how best to develop the station to cater to the growing tourism numbers.

She praised the province for its unique eco-tourism and community tourism scenes which contribute to the area's tourism development. Ms. Korbkan suggested the local tourism office prepare for the national tourism campaign which will simultaneously promote tourism in other ASEAN nations as well.

The Minister stressed that officials must also put emphasis on tourist safety, toilet cleanliness and direction signs. She believes that doing so will contribute to a long lasting favorable impression on visitors who would likely return to Trat to enjoy the attractions of the region.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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Backgrounder: Cuba's reopened embassy in U.S. to fly original vintage flag

HAVANA/WASHINGTON, July 20 (Xinhua) -- The Cuban government is preparing to reopen its embassy in Washington Monday (July 20) with the original Cuban flag that was taken down in 1961, when the two nations cut off ties.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841810-cubas-reopened-embassy-in-us-to-fly-original-vintage-flag/

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Malaysia pushes for international tribunal on MH17

KUALA LUMPUR: -- Malaysia is adamant in pushing for a resolution at the UN Security Council for an international criminal tribunal to probe the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 and punish the cuplrits, according to The Star Online.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841818-malaysia-pushes-for-international-tribunal-on-mh17/

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SET up 1.28 points at opening /Bangkok Post

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Meteorologists forecast more rain in Thailand

BANGKOK, 20 July 2015 (NNT)-The Meteorological Department has forecast that there will soon be more rain in Thailand.

With a monsoon trough moving across the North and the North East of the country and another gaining power in the Andaman Sea, more precipitation can be expected including heavy rainfall in some areas.

Sea conditions are not ideal at this time of year in the Andaman Sea off Phuket province and other lower coastal provinces. Fishermen are advised to take precautions when leaving the shore as waves could reach a height of 3 meters.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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"Health City, Community Lifestyle" fair generates almost 10 million baht

BANGKOK, 20 July 2015, (NNT) - The government's "Health City, Community Lifestyle" fair had accumulated 59,111 visitors and generated about 10 million baht in revenue over the course of its first two weeks, as it continues into the final week.

The fair, which is being held at Phadung Krung Kasem Canal near Government House, features more than 100 vending stalls offering health related products from around the Kingdom. These items are considered relatively rare in the market but are being sold at discounted prices at the fair. Products highlighted include andrographis gel, herbal products for the elderly, herbal snacks, Heyum-grass products, and dieting tea.

Other activities include a hammer massage service, seminars on deploying herbal knowledge to generate income and using herbs to treat ailments. Event-goers can also have a free basic physical examination and vaccinations.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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Pol Gen Ake visits PIPO Center in Samut Sakhon Province

SAMUT SAKHON, 20 July 2015, (NNT) - Deputy national police chief, Police General Ake Angsananont yesterday visited the fish market and the Port In-Port Out (PIPO) Control Center in Samut Sakhon Province. He said the center is currently understaffed, but added that more officials will be sent to the station there before the Gulf of Thailand reopens for commercial fishing on August 1st.

According to Police General Ake, there are only two working units at the control center, which currently has to process an average of 27 fishing vessels a day. The number of vessels could easily increase to 10 times that figure when the Gulf of Thailand reopens to the fishing fleets.

Police General Ake also instructed all police commanders in the coastal provinces to reinforce the number of troops paroling the respective PIPO Control Centers, in a bid to eliminate the illegal labor issue in the fisheries industry.

He said a comprehensive report will be produced and the Royal Thai Police will provide assistance to the EU officers when the latter return to re-evaluate the Kingdom's fisheries sector.

The deputy national police chief yesterday also inspected and received reports on the fisheries scene at the Rayong pier.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

[Jonathan Fairfield]

New security measures at Don Mueang airport causing long delays

Read more: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841822-new-security-measures-at-don-mueang-airport-causing-long-delays/

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VIDEO

3-time world champ fights off shark during South Africa comp
By LYNSEY CHUTEL

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Knocked off his board by an attacking shark, three-time world champion Mick Fanning punched the creature before escaping unharmed during the televised finals of a world surfing competition in South Africa on Sunday.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841826-world-champ-mick-fanning-fights-off-shark-attack-during-south-africa-comp-video/

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PM visits fruit market centre in Rayong



BANGKOK: -- Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha flew in a Army helicopter to visit fruit farmers and inspect their fruit market at Tapong fruit centre in Rayong province this morning.

The prime minister was accompanied by the ministers of interior, education and agriculture.

Security at the Tapong fruit centre was tightened with all participants were required to come under security check of their personal belongings by police.

The prime minister aimed to ask fruit farmers about the fruit market situation, and the assistance they want from the government.

In the afternoon, he will also visit a school project, and will return to Bangkok late in the afternoon.

Source: http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/pm-visits-fruit-market-centre-in-rayong


-- Thai PBS 2015-07-20

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Nakhon Sawan farmers agree to stop pumping water from river

NAKHON SAWAN, 20 July 2015 (NNT) - Farmers in three subdistricts of Nakhon Sawan have vowed not to pump water from the Ping River to help those coping with the drought crisis in the lower Central Plains.

The farmers in Tha Ngio, Hu Kwang and Ang Thong subdistricts have said they will stop pumping the water from the Ping River into their rice paddies for 15 days.

The leader of each district has resolved to temporarily suspend the activity to allow water to flow to provinces downstream. Residents in low-lying areas of the Chao Phraya River have been suffering from water shortages.

More than 15,000 rai of rice paddies will have to go without water for half a month as a result of their decision. However, the farmers will begin to pump water again if the situation does not improve.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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WASHINGTON (AP) - US, Cuba restore full diplomatic relations after 54 years as another Cold War-era vestige ends.

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US, Cuba restore full diplomatic ties after 5 decades
MATTHEW LEE, Associated Press
PETER ORSI, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — More than a half century of Cold War and lingering enmity came to an abrupt but quiet end on Monday as the United States and Cuba restored full diplomatic relations.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841828-us-cuba-restore-full-diplomatic-ties-after-5-decades/

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UPDATE:

Don Mueang clogged with late travelers due to tightened security measures
By Coconuts Bangkok



BANGKOK: -- Don Mueang International Airport’s heightened luggage screening has slowed the normally brisk flow and caused passengers to miss flights during the weekend.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841822-new-security-measures-at-don-mueang-airport-causing-long-delays/#entry9640328

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DDPM says water situation improving across 38 provinces

BANGKOK, 20 July 2015 (NNT) - The Department of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has revealed that nine provinces continue to suffer from the drought crisis.

DDPM Director General Chatchai Promlert said that water shortages previously reported in 38 provinces have now subsided. More than 145,000 homes in Nan and Nakhon Ratchasima are still coping with the crisis.

Meanwhile, seven other provinces, which include Phrae, Chonburi, Sukhothai, Pathum Thani, Phichit, Phitsanulok and Phetchabun, reported not enough rainfall.

The Ministry of Interior, the Royal Thai Army and provincial authorities have been collaborating to provide emergency water relief to homes and farmland. People are urged to use water wisely.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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Ratchaburi models industrial zone based on Japanese city

BANGKOK, 20 July 2015 (NNT) - Ratchaburi province has been pushing for an environmentally conscious city, by following in the footsteps of Kitakyushu city.

Deputy Ratchaburi Governor Ronnaphob Ruengphairote traveled with defense officials and architects to Kitakyushu in Kyushu, Japan to observe how pollution has been managed by city.

The city was once severely polluted. Measures have been taken to the clean the entire area of Kitakyushu, which has taken on significant economic value.

The Thai delegation is scheduled to visit a garbage disposal facility in the city and observe the daily lives of its residents. The knowledge gained from this trip will be applied in the design of an industrial zone in Ratchaburi.

According to the report, many investors from Kitakyushu have invested in the establishment of the industrial estate.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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Nong Khai holds a workshop for drivers planning to work in Laos

NONG KHAI, 20 July 2015, (NNT) - The Office of Land Transport in the northeastern province of Nong Khai on Sunday held a workshop for drivers who are looking to work in Laos.

According to the organizers, the first-of-its-kind event was attended by 40 local truck, passenger vehicle and personal car drivers. The program is in line with the government's project to improve the driving skills of Thais when driving in foreign countries.

The workshop is aimed at providing basic knowledge about the Laotian traffic laws and culture and immigration regulations for those interested in driving or working in foreign countries. The organizers hope to improve the quality of Thai drivers before they leave for Laos to seek employment opportunity there.


-- NNT 2015-07-20

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Criminal Court begins first hearing against Thaksin Shinawatra for allegedly insulting the Army



BANGKOK: -- The Criminal Court this morning began the first hearing of a case in which the army chief charged the fugitive former premier Thaksin Shinawatra for libel and national security threat.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841832-criminal-court-begins-hearing-against-thaksin-shinawatra-for-allegedly-insulting-the-army/

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UPDATE:

Probe into billionaire’s car crash death progressing



BANGKOK: -- Investigation into the death of the construction billionaire Chuwong Sae Tang is progressing with four investigation teams have been set up to look into the nature of his death, whether it was a car accident as earlier assumed by Udomsuk station police, or someone might stage the scene to make the death appear to be the car accident to cover up the murder.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841762-four-thai-police-teams-to-probe-death-of-a-construction-magnate/#entry9640435

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Greeks will find banks open, but restrictions still in place
DEMETRIS NELLAS, Associated Press

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greeks will finally see their banks reopen at 8 a.m. local (0500 GMT) Monday morning, but many restrictions on transactions, including cash withdrawals, will remain.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841833-greeks-will-find-banks-open-but-restrictions-still-in-place/

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Cosby detailed his womanizing, secrecy efforts a decade ago
GEOFF MULVIHILL, Associated Press

NEW YORK: -- Under oath in a hotel — away from the TV cameras and the soapbox where he did his public moralizing — Bill Cosby sketched a very different image of America's Dad: a philanderer who plied young women with quaaludes, claimed to be adept at reading their unspoken desires and tried to use his wealth to keep "Mrs. Cosby" in the dark.

Full story: Cosby detailed his womanizing, secrecy efforts a decade ago

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Thaksin in Singapore



BANGKOK: -- Fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is now on a tour of ASEAN countries after having visited China last week.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841840-thaksin-in-singapore/

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Tourists sent running after a tourist boat ran ashore in high speed in Pattaya



PATTAYA: -- Several tourists strolling or sitting on Pattaya beach in front of Soi 13 were sent running in panic when a double-decker tourist boat ran ashore in high speed about 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/841841-tourists-sent-running-after-a-tourist-boat-ran-ashore-in-high-speed-in-pattaya/