Jurin to attend RCEP in a bid to form world’s biggest trading bloc

13 Sept 14:10 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Jurin Laksanawisit will attend the RCEP ministerial conference in Beijing, aiming to finalize the formation of the world's largest trade bloc.
The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) seeks to unite 10 ASEAN members with six Asia-Pacific countries, creating a massive economic partnership representing 32.3% of global GDP and 48% of the world's population.
Despite its potential to enhance Thailand's position in global supply chains, RCEP negotiations face hurdles, including unresolved issues on market access and rules of origin, with India expressing significant concerns.
Local industries and civil society in Thailand voice concerns about increased competition, equitable benefit distribution, and potential adverse impacts on farmers and local communities from the RCEP agreement.

Detained Suu Kyi receives UK royal package: Myanmar govt

Today 03:08 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's detained Nobel laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi, received a package from Britain's King Charles III, which included two gardening books, a sealed envelope, and diplomatic communication.
The event marked the first release of images of Suu Kyi in two months and saw Myanmar authorities describe her as a "special female prisoner" for the first time.
Suu Kyi, who was deposed in a 2021 military coup that triggered an ongoing civil war, remains under house arrest on charges that rights groups contend are politically motivated.