Permanent Secretary Denies Rumor of Agriculture Ministry Officials Joining Foreign Trip with Thammanat

On February 20, 2024, Vinaron Suppasungsuk, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, addressed rumors about high-ranking ministry officials preparing to travel to Europe with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture Thammanat Promprao. He firmly denied the reports, stating that any foreign travel requires ministerial approval, and no one has requested permission. Vinaron emphasized that ministry officials must work continuously and comprehensively, serving the public while using government budgets. He dismissed suggestions of any political maneuvering, saying he is a career civil servant who focuses on work directives. The Permanent Secretary highlighted ongoing preparations for the agricultural planting season, including managing El Niño effects, water resource planning, and strategies to reduce production costs for farmers. He scheduled follow-up meetings to assess departmental performance and review budget frameworks for 2026.