Thailand's newly appointed Culture Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, announced a delay in returning 20 ancient artefacts to Cambodia.
The postponement is primarily due to rising border tensions between the two nations, prompting a review of the planned handover.
Budgetary constraints within the Fine Arts Department are also cited as a reason, with current funds deemed insufficient for the transfer.
Paetongtarn further escalated bilateral friction by reasserting Thailand's sovereignty over the disputed Ta Muen Temple complex.
Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings
Yesterday 15:20Key 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.