Myanmar sends representative to ASEAN meet for first time in two years

13 Sept 10:41 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's junta sent a senior official to an ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Laos, marking its first high-level engagement with the bloc in over two years since the 2021 military coup.
Laos, chairing ASEAN, welcomed Myanmar's "non-political" representation, expressing cautious optimism that renewed engagement could foster understanding despite the ongoing crisis.
Despite Myanmar's attendance, some ASEAN members, like Indonesia, clarified that this aligns with existing policy barring minister-level political representatives, indicating no shift in the bloc's firm stance.
The meeting underscored the continued need for humanitarian aid to Myanmar, where the 2021 coup has led to widespread violence and stalled the ASEAN-backed peace plan.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 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.