Official foundation stone laid for the 5th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge

13 Sept 13:56 Key points summarised by AI

Thai and Laotian Prime Ministers jointly presided over the foundation stone ceremony for the 5th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, linking Thailand’s Bueng Kan province with Bolikhamxay province in Laos, with construction already 57% complete and an expected opening in 2024.
This 1.35km bridge is a crucial part of the Greater Mekong Sub-region Economic Cooperation program, designed to develop an extensive road network connecting five key Mekong riparian countries and foster regional economic integration.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.