Thailand Unfazed by Myanmar Leader's Visit, Plans Multi-Issue Talks
Thailand will host Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing in early August, planning talks on peace, drug trafficking, scammers, and environmental issues affecting both countries as part of efforts to promote regional stability.
Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek addressed concerns about Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing's official visit to Thailand in early August on July 22 at Government House. She explained that Thailand is gradually encouraging Myanmar to play a greater role in ASEAN while advancing efforts to help build peace in Myanmar, noting that stability there benefits Thai border communities and the two nations are interconnected.
When asked about discussion topics, Ratchada said all issues would be covered, including peace, drug trafficking, scammers, environmental concerns, and river pollution affecting both countries. She noted that Myanmar's Foreign Minister recently met with the Prime Minister and acknowledged problems stemming from Myanmar that impact Thailand, while expressing readiness to assist. Myanmar has also requested academic cooperation on burning and pollution issues.
Regarding concerns about the government's image in hosting a leader viewed negatively by some, Ratchada said the government was not worried, explaining that neighboring countries must live together and that Thais would benefit if peace and positive developments occur in Myanmar. She emphasized that cooperation rather than isolation is necessary. Min Aung Hlaing's visit is scheduled to coincide with the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok in early August.
