New panel to review the Navy's Chinese submarine deal

2 Oct 11:09 Key points summarised by AI

Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang announced a new 13-15 member panel, including representatives from the Navy, Finance Ministry, Attorney-General's Office, and potentially opposition members, to review the Navy's procurement of Chinese submarines.
The original contract for Chinese submarines remains in place, but any proposed acquisition of a Chinese frigate instead would require cabinet consent, with the deal previously stalled due to Germany's refusal to supply specified engines.

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

Yesterday 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).