Trump's Thailand pick to tell Bangkok border conflicts don't help alliance

14 Sept 01:30 Key points summarised by AI

US ambassador nominee Sean O'Neill plans to inform Thailand that border conflicts, like recent clashes with Cambodia, undermine its alliance with Washington and harm its people.
O'Neill's statement follows a deadly five-day conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which concluded with a ceasefire after US President Trump linked continued fighting to stalled trade negotiations.
He emphasized that such conflicts are a "needless waste of life and treasure," urging Thailand to prioritize long-term peace over hostilities that weaken the US-Thai alliance.
Additionally, O'Neill pledged to encourage Thailand not to legitimize Myanmar's military government by recognizing any "sham" elections lacking broad participation and with opposition leaders imprisoned.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.