Bangkok: The Prime Minister invited Wan Muhammad Nor Matha to a meeting at Government House to discuss the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, stressing the urgency of forming a new government to ensure Thailand's credibility and economic reforms.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister viewed the government's neutral stance on the conflict as appropriate. He emphasized the need for swift government formation to build credibility and advance economic reforms. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul began his duties at Government House this morning, observing his daily practice of paying respects to a replica of the Narasimha statue.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, facilitated the meeting between former Parliament Speaker Wan Muhammad Nor Matha and the Prime Minister. Mr. Wan Muhammad Nor disclosed that the Prime Minister sought his insights on minimizing the conflict's impact on Thai citizens, considering his familiarity with Muslim countries. Despite Thailand not being in a state of war, there is concern about potential effects on the nation.
Mr. Wan Muhammad Nor assured that Muslims in Thailand need not worry, as the country maintains a neutral position and adheres to United Nations and ASEAN agreements, supporting negotiations for peace. He remarked that the conflict's duration is unpredictable, involving multiple countries, but it is the government's duty, alongside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant ministries, to ensure citizen safety. ASEAN has already convened its Foreign Ministers to outline a beneficial stance and role for the region.
He expressed confidence in international cooperation, highlighting Thailand's reputation as a peaceful and stable nation, which facilitates collaboration in assisting Thai citizens during crises. He noted that most Thais in the Middle East are Sunni, while Iran is predominantly Shia, yet they coexist peacefully without sectarian conflicts.
When questioned about parliamentary work following the Election Commission's certification of all MPs, Mr. Wan Muhammad Nor indicated no concerns, as the Secretary-General of the House of Representatives will proceed with necessary protocols for opening the session. Discussions about positions within the Prachachart Party, if joining the government, were not a primary focus. He emphasized the Bhumjaithai Party's responsibility to form a government, given its electoral success, to address pressing issues, particularly economic challenges exacerbated by the Middle East conflict.
Regarding the timeline for opening parliamentary sessions, Mr. Wan Muhammad Nor clarified that it is subject to royal approval and cannot be decided independently by parliament or the government.