(18/08/2011)
 New
Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul has told officials at the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance relations with the international
community at all levels and dimensions, especially the resolving of
Thai-Cambodian issue.Mr. Surapong on17 August 2011 assumed office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and gave an initial briefing on his policies prior to the presentation of the Government’s policy statement in Parliament, scheduled for August 23 and 24. He pointed out that the Thai-Cambodian issue must be settled through peaceful and constructive means, based on mutual interest and the protection of the country’s sovereignty and the benefit of the people. Mr. Surapong said that he would hold meetings with relevant agencies to discuss the Thai-Cambodian conflicts and the decision to withdraw Thailand from UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention. He referred to the 35th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris in June this year, when the former Minister of the Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Suwit Khunkitti, walked out from the session as a way of expressing disagreement with the World Heritage Committee concerning the issue of Cambodia’s management plan for the temple. In this regard, Mr. Surapong said that he had been assigned by the Cabinet to report this issue to a Cabinet meeting for consideration. He said that he would discuss with Cambodia for the release of two Thai nationals, Mr. Veera Somhwamkid and Miss Ratree Pipattanapaibul, who have been detained in prison in Cambodia on espionage charges. The release is likely to be raised for discussion during his official visit to Cambodia. He reiterated that he would offer a helping hand to Mr. Veera and Miss Ratree in the same manner as all Thais would be assisted when facing difficulties in foreign countries. Concerning the possibility of re-issuing a diplomatic passport to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Mr. Surapong explained that the Government has no policy on this matter and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not raise the issue for discussion. He would take action in accordance with the law. He also indicated that one of his priorities was to prepare Thailand for the formation of the ASEAN Community in 2015 through cooperation with both the public and private sector in creating ASEAN awareness. Emphasis will be placed on efforts to promote Thailand’s trade, investment, and tourism. New markets will be sought to cope with the global economic slowdown. He stressed the need for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to reach out to the people at all levels, saying that a proactive working style must be emphasized to boost the country’s economy and image. |
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