Thai elephant in Sri Lanka suddenly moved to unknown location

15 Sept 17:59 Key points summarised by AI

A Thai elephant named Pratupa, gifted to Sri Lanka, was abruptly moved from a temple to an undisclosed location just before a scheduled visit by a Thai delegation.
While the temple cited Pratupa being 'in season,' a Thai delegation member suspects the move was driven by fear that Thailand might request Pratupa's return, similar to another maltreated elephant, Sak Surin, recently evacuated.
The Thai delegation, initially in Sri Lanka to facilitate Sak Surin's return due to severe ill health, is now actively seeking assistance from the Thai Embassy and local animal protection groups to ascertain Pratupa's welfare.
The delegation also visited a third elephant, Sri Narong, who was found in good condition, with its mahout noting Sak Surin's previous poor health was likely due to inadequate care.

Thailand secures US$200m World Bank loan for clean energy and low carbon cities

Today 09:24 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand secured a US$200 million loan from the World Bank to significantly invest in clean energy and low-carbon urban development initiatives.
The program aims to drive clean energy funding and low-carbon growth, ensuring a just transition for small and medium-sized enterprises, workers, farmers, and local communities.
Channelled through the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, the loan will fund energy efficiency upgrades in public buildings and industrial areas, including rooftop solar installations and electrical system modernizations, reducing initial capital burdens via Energy Service Companies (ESCOs).