Bangkok: PM Paethongtarn Shinawatra addressed the House of Representatives, asserting her commitment to tackling the PM2.5 dust issue and denying allegations of signing electricity contracts to benefit capitalists. She emphasized that pollution is a shared problem, not confined to one government. The Prime Minister also dismissed accusations regarding the Alpine land purchase and explained that existing electricity contracts predate her administration.
According to Thai News Agency, PM Shinawatra clarified her stance on the PM2.5 dust problem during a no-confidence debate. She highlighted the ASEAN agenda's role in addressing transboundary pollution and called for ministerial cooperation to prevent agricultural burning in neighboring countries. She assured the parliament that the government has implemented various measures such as a burning ban, legal actions against violators, and increased monitoring of forest fires.
The Prime Minister emphasized that progress has been made, noting lower average dust levels compared to previous years. She reiterated that air quality improvement requires collective effort from all sectors. Responding to allegations about electricity procurement, she denied any government contracts favoring capitalists, attributing such agreements to prior administrations.
In addressing the black chin tilapia issue, PM Shinawatra mentioned receiving gratitude from the Fisheries Association of Thailand for approving a budget of 1,622 million baht to compensate fishing boats affected by the IUU case. She affirmed her commitment to addressing citizens' needs, citing measures implemented by the government of Mr. Settha Thavisin to resolve the tilapia problem and provide compensation to those affected. PM Shinawatra concluded by reaffirming her dedication to solving all issues affecting the Thai people, ensuring their access to resources, dignity, and prosperity.