Bangkok: The Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, has received a financial review from the government as he considers the future of the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" Phase 2 initiative. This decision follows the conclusion of the program's first phase in September. The Prime Minister emphasized that any policy implemented must benefit the economy and stimulate trade. Discussions are underway about potentially adjusting the current lending conditions from a 60:40 to a 50:50 co-payment scheme, contingent on budgetary evaluations. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential financial burden on the public due to borrowing. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of weighing the benefits against the costs, particularly the emergency decree loan's 1.2% interest rate. He reiterated that the funds are intended to stimulate economic growth and not for personal gain. Positive outcomes have been seen in various indices, reflecting increased investment confidence, trade value, exports, and GDP growth. Me asures to stimulate the economy, such as adjusting electricity rates, are also being considered, with assurances that the government's budget remains robust.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul engaged in discussions with Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing during his official visit to Thailand. The talks focused on addressing river pollution, haze, and drug trafficking. President Min Aung Hlaing committed to cooperating with Thailand on these issues, particularly concerning the presence of toxic substances in rivers. Myanmar requested that Thailand consider safe levels for consumers rather than relying solely on international standards. Thailand agreed to collaborate but stressed the need for enhanced monitoring at border checkpoints. Additionally, Myanmar reported discovering military equipment being shipped from Thailand and requested cooperation in closing weapon access channels for ethnic minorities. The Prime Minister also addressed allegations of his involvement in local government examination corruption. He refuted claims made by the House of Representatives' Committee on Law, Justice, and Human Rights, chaired by Rangsiman Ro me, which accused him of manipulating terms of reference to exclude Burapha University from a contract. He emphasized that the matter is under investigation by relevant authorities and affirmed his commitment to anti-corruption efforts.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul criticized the statements made by Rangsiman Rome, asserting that they were based on limited intelligence and lacking factual support. He distanced himself from the corruption scandal, stating that his role was to identify and penalize those responsible. Recent meetings, including one attended by Mr. Arsit Sampanrat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, resulted in the decision to cancel appointments of over 5,000 civil servants involved in fraudulent examination practices. This resolution will be communicated to local authorities and provincial governors, terminating the employment of those involved. Mr. Anutin dismissed Mr. Rangsiman's attempts to draw him into the controversy, attributing them to efforts to generate news without factual basis.