Bangkok: The government spokesperson emphasized that Thai-Myanmar relations must be viewed from all angles, prioritizing national interests and resolving cross-border issues for the benefit of the people, and urged the public to stop focusing solely on the political dimension.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, addressed the concerns raised by the People's Party regarding the relationship between the Thai and Myanmar governments and their disagreement with the Thai government's reception of Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing. She stated that the government understands that differing opinions are possible. However, she emphasized that international relations, especially with neighboring countries sharing a border, require a comprehensive and multifaceted consideration, encompassing security, economic, social aspects, and the impact on people's lives. She stressed that political considerations should not be limited to the political dimension, as many issues affecting Thai citizens are cross-border problems that Thailand cannot resolve alone. Therefore, channels for dialogue, coordination, and cooperation are necessary.
The spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office further stated that Thailand shares a border with Myanmar spanning over 2,400 kilometers, making cooperation between the two countries unavoidable. This includes combating drug trafficking, eradicating scammers and transnational crime, and addressing transboundary pollution issues such as wildfires, haze, PM 2.5, and contamination in rivers flowing across the border. Without dialogue and cooperation, it will be difficult to effectively resolve these problems. Simultaneously, relations with Myanmar also involve economic and energy aspects. Myanmar is a significant source of natural gas for Thailand, and the two countries are currently discussing the renewal of expiring natural gas lease agreements, which relates to energy security, production costs, and the cost of living for the population.
Ms. Ratchada stated that maintaining relations with Myanmar does not mean Thailand must agree with everything or accept every stance of the other party. Rather, it means preserving channels and mechanisms that allow Thailand to negotiate, push forward beneficial issues, and resolve problems affecting the people. She emphasized that the government conducts relations with Myanmar based on the interests of Thailand and its people, cooperating on mutually beneficial issues, negotiating on problematic matters, and upholding Thailand's principles on issues of disagreement.
"Maintaining good relations with neighboring countries is essential for building stability, security, and a better quality of life for the Thai people. At the same time, responsible politics should provide the public with a comprehensive view of the facts. Disagreement is acceptable, but society should be able to see the problems, benefits, and opportunities for the country. Otherwise, only one side-the dissenting opinion-will be presented, overlooking the benefits," said the spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office.