AI In-brief 27 Sept 08:12

ASEAN should rethink consensus rule – Thai FM

Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow urged ASEAN to re-evaluate its consensus rule and strengthen its institutions to effectively counter intensifying strategic competition among major global powers.
He outlined three guiding principles for the bloc: regionalism, emphasizing interconnected national and regional interests; resilience, advocating for a review of the decision-making process to prevent delays; and relevance, pushing ASEAN to set its own agenda and build stronger ties with middle powers.
Sihasak proposed concrete reforms, including adapting the non-interference principle, strengthening the ASEAN Secretariat, and implementing a 'troika' system of past, present, and future chairs to ensure policy continuity.
The Minister underscored the urgency of addressing critical regional challenges such as energy supply disruptions, climate change, and online scam networks, calling for immediate joint action to enhance ASEAN's strategic autonomy.

AI In-brief Yesterday 11:54

Thailand, Myanmar to meet later this month to discuss river pollution

Thailand and Myanmar will convene on November 25-26 to address critical cross-border pollution affecting the Sai and Kok rivers, with Myanmar expressing readiness to cooperate.
The bilateral meeting, expedited at Thailand's request, aims to tackle growing concerns over river contamination.
Discussions also covered recent border tensions, with Myanmar expressing regret over military operations that affected Thailand and proposing a special meeting between military representatives.
Both nations agreed to establish a new working group to enhance coordination and accelerate joint efforts against transnational crime, particularly scam operations along the border.