Talks with Cambodia not for US publicity: Thai FM

20 Sept 02:40 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow affirmed that negotiations with Cambodia are driven by Thailand's national interest in achieving genuine peace, not by a desire to boost the US image as a peace broker.
Thailand remains unconvinced of Cambodia's sincerity and denies claims of agreeing to a joint declaration or immediate prisoner release, stating that mutual relations cannot progress without Cambodia meeting its four preconditions.
The four conditions include concrete plans for returning heavy weapons, demining efforts, cooperation against transnational crime, and serious discussions to prevent future border intrusions.
Sihasak clarified that the release of 18 prisoners of war is contingent upon Cambodia demonstrating effective action on these key issues, not an unconditional agreement.
Thailand seeks unified negotiations, accusing Cambodia of past evasion and attempts to internationalize issues rather than resolving them bilaterally within existing frameworks.

Government to start building Chainat-Pasak-Gulf water diversion canal next year

Today 14:58 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's government will launch the "Chainat-Pasak-Gulf" water diversion canal project in fiscal year 2027, a seven-year mega-infrastructure initiative.
This permanent structural solution aims to mitigate recurrent central plains flooding by diverting water from the Chao Phraya River directly into the Gulf of Thailand, significantly reducing flow to major cities like Ayutthaya and Bangkok.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul justifies the long-term investment as a means to reduce future damages and fiscal burdens, contrasting it with the 40-50 billion baht spent annually on short-term flood relief.
Concurrently, the Prime Minister instructed officials to expand drainage capacity into the Tha Chin River and swiftly remove water hyacinths to improve immediate flood management.