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New Thai government should avoid recklessness in Myanmar policy, say experts

13 Sept 11:08 Key points summarised by AI

The incoming Thai government must overhaul its foreign policy towards Myanmar, shifting from the previous 'quiet diplomacy' to a clear stance on democracy and human rights to restore Thailand's international standing.
Experts warn that while a tougher approach could align with some ASEAN members, it risks jeopardizing relations with Myanmar's military and potentially upsetting China, suggesting a more pragmatic policy focused on peace and economic development might be more stable.
Prioritizing humanitarian assistance in Myanmar, in line with the ASEAN five-point consensus, is crucial, but caution is advised against applying excessive pressure on the military, which could be counterproductive and push them towards other global powers.
The new coalition government's partners, Move Forward and Pheu Thai, need to synchronize their differing foreign policies on Myanmar to avoid conflicting messages and maintain stability, especially given potential domestic implications for border security and civil-military relations.
Thailand is encouraged to initiate an informal forum for all Myanmar stakeholders, including the military, opposition groups, and civil society, to foster dialogue and reconciliation, beginning with less sensitive issues to build trust.

Today 14:58 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's government will launch the "Chainat-Pasak-Gulf" water diversion canal project in fiscal year 2027, a seven-year mega-infrastructure initiative.
This permanent structural solution aims to mitigate recurrent central plains flooding by diverting water from the Chao Phraya River directly into the Gulf of Thailand, significantly reducing flow to major cities like Ayutthaya and Bangkok.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul justifies the long-term investment as a means to reduce future damages and fiscal burdens, contrasting it with the 40-50 billion baht spent annually on short-term flood relief.
Concurrently, the Prime Minister instructed officials to expand drainage capacity into the Tha Chin River and swiftly remove water hyacinths to improve immediate flood management.