Foreign Ministry to increase focus on economic diplomacy - Sihasak

13 Sept 14:54 Key points summarised by AI

The Foreign Ministry, led by Sihasak Phuangketkeow, is intensifying its focus on economic diplomacy to directly link foreign policy with national jobs, income, and long-term competitiveness amid global fragmentation and 're-globalization'.
Thailand aims to build international confidence by ensuring clear rules, steady policies, and predictable direction for investors, improving trade facilitation, aligning with global standards (including ESG), and supporting a rules-based system, exemplified by hosting IMF and World Bank meetings.
The ministry seeks to strengthen supply chains and future industries, positioning Thailand as a reliable coordinating partner, empowering embassies with stronger economic roles, and investing in key sectors like the digital economy, aviation, logistics, medical services, biotechnology, and robotics.
Thailand is expanding its multilateral networking by broadening ties with South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, alongside engagement with established platforms like APEC and G20, to enhance flexibility amidst great-power rivalry.
The strategy emphasizes interagency coherence, ensuring that external engagement, trade policy, and economic vision are unified to translate national strategy into tangible economic outcomes for the people.

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.