Udon Thani:Bangkok Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, accompanied by several ministers, is currently on an official visit to upper northeastern Thailand. This visit precedes tomorrow's Cabinet meeting, which is scheduled to take place outside of Bangkok in Udon Thani province. This evening, the Prime Minister will officially open the Udon Thani International Horticultural Exposition.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul started his official duties by inaugurating the Metta Sukhato Heart Center at Nong Khai Hospital and distributing land ownership documents for over 300 plots designated for cultivation within the Phan Phrao-Kaeng Kai National Forest Reserve. He also presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Phra Borommarajchanok Institute Hospital and Medical Center.
The Prime Minister's visit also included a focus on addressing the drug problem comprehensively and sustainably. Additionally, he is set to preside over the opening of the 2026 Udon Thani International Horticultural Exposition. Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Suriya Jungrungruangkit, highlighted that the event is expected to attract tourists and generate at least 20 billion baht in revenue.
Mr. Anutin emphasized the importance of hosting international events and highlighted agriculture as a national agenda item for the Cabinet meeting. He expressed his intention to promote the Northeast as a world-class rice-producing region and advocated for the use of B20 biodiesel to reduce fuel costs. Meanwhile, Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, visited a learning center in Udon Thani that focuses on traditional weaving, affirming her commitment to promoting Thai community products internationally.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, inspected the "Thai Helps Thai x Local Low Cost" project, aimed at supporting local commerce and reducing living costs. She also promoted a refined rice project in Ban Don Kloi, focusing on quality rather than quantity.
Mr. Jetseth Thaiseth called for immediate action on drought conditions and emphasized the importance of water quality control. He stressed preparedness for natural disasters and the development of early warning systems. In parallel, Mr. Worasit Liengprasit reviewed the System Smart City project and provided guidance on local administration.
In political developments, the Prime Minister denied reports of parliamentary maneuvering for an amnesty deal or vote-swapping scheme involving Thaksin Shinawatra. He also clarified that the public solar power project bidding process is ongoing and denied allegations of rigged specifications or kickbacks.