Bangkok: The Prime Minister reiterated Thailand's neutrality in the Middle East situation, urging all parties to resolve the conflict through diplomatic negotiations. He also ordered six ministries to implement measures to support citizens and mitigate the economic and security impacts. Furthermore, he declared emphatically that there will be no negotiations or opening of border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, in an interview regarding the unrest in the Middle East, stated that the situation is being closely monitored. Currently, all relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Public Health, and the Ministry of Finance, are prepared to provide assistance to citizens stranded in countries experiencing problems.
Tomorrow (March 2nd), the National Security Council (NSC) will convene to determine measures to provide assistance and facilitate the process as quickly as possible. There is no need to worry about the evacuation of everyone. The Royal Thai Air Force, through its Commander-in-Chief, is reporting to me constantly on its readiness. Right now, the focus is on coordinating the evacuation of as many Thai citizens as possible, and then arranging their transportation to safe locations. This is being done in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government, and the armed forces, who are working together fully.
When asked what position Thailand should take, the Prime Minister said that we must remain as neutral as possible, but we must be concerned about the situation because we have our fellow citizens in that country as well.
"We urge all parties to prioritize diplomatic negotiations, dialogue, and building understanding to the greatest extent possible. We want world peace to come as soon as possible," said Mr. Anutin.
When asked about the economic impact, the Prime Minister confirmed that there would definitely be an impact, but we must have measures in place to minimize it. We must find ways to help, support, reduce expenses, and lower costs, including energy prices. I have instructed Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapha to find measures to address this. The Oil Fund must be utilized to maximize benefits for the Thai people.
Regarding the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border, the Prime Minister stated that there have been no clashes so far. He said he would visit the soldiers injured from landmines in Surin province to offer encouragement, as he is already in the area to observe the situation along the border. Overall, the situation is under control, but all measures remain the same. There are no plans to reopen border crossings or engage in any negotiations.