Border mine blast a blow to ASEAN credibility, a test for Thai diplomacy

13 Sept 12:35 Key points summarised by AI

A recent mine explosion on the Thai-Cambodian border injured a Thai soldier, prompting Thailand to suspend a peace deal and accuse Cambodia, thereby challenging ASEAN's mediation role.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul demanded an apology from Cambodia, while Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet condemned alleged Thai violence and called for an independent international investigation into the incidents.
Initial confusion arose when the US appeared to link trade negotiations with Thailand to the border conflict, though Thai PM Anutin later clarified that the US separated the issues and urged expedited demining.
A reporting error by Malaysian state media regarding the mine's origin further complicated diplomatic efforts and fueled nationalist sentiment in Thailand against perceived foreign interference.

Lamphun in a New Light

Yesterday 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.