A Call for All Sectors of Thai Society to Adjust to Political and Economic Changes

(13/09/2011)

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has called on all sectors of Thai society to adjust to political and economic changes in the country and the world. The call was made during her address to officer students from five colleges of the Royal Thai Armed Forces after a presentation of their recommendations on national and military strategies for 2012-2016. The presentation took place on September 9 at the Army Club on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road in Bangkok. Attending this event were officer students from the National Defense College, Joint Staff College, Royal Thai Army War College, Naval War College, and Air War College. Also participating in the presentation were a number of government officials, representatives from state enterprises, members of the private sector, and politicians. In her address, Prime Minister Yingluck said that national and military strategies needed to be integrated and that all people involved must work more closely to achieve set targets. She pointed out global challenges brought about by political and economic changes. For instance, she said, the world’s economic base is moving from the United States and Europe to Asia. This trend should be positive for Thailand. The question is how Thailand will act in order to benefit from this trend. She urged the people not to regard risks as a problem but as an opportunity for the country to adjust to changes. The Prime Minister stated that the political situation is facing a challenge, as well. For example, it has moved toward democratic trends, which lead to the rule of law and bring about equality. She said that changes in the environment and natural resources are playing an increasingly important role in the economy. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of natural disaster management, which should be included in the national agenda. She said that the world is now focusing its attention on alternative energy, which uses agricultural resources as the main ingredients. Since Thailand is rich in food and agricultural resources, the country is likely to become more prosperous in the future. Regarding social conditions, she said, social disparity and poverty remain the problem. The Government needs to look into ways to upgrade the Thai people’s quality of life. At the same time, it needs to pay greater attention to the growing number of older persons. Corruption is another issue that needs to be tackled more effectively. The Prime Minister praised the recommendations offered by the officer students on the topic “Smart Engagement, Strengthening Foundation.” She said that the strategy for strengthening and reducing gaps is not enough. The country also needs the strategy for minimizing negative conditions that may lead conflicts. In this way, Thailand will be able to move forward successfully.