Thailand News Online Update

Thai gov't to heed King's advice: PM

2011-12-06T03:37:00.000-08:00

Thai gov't to heed King's advice: PM
Thailand's Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Tuesday vowed to heed King Bhumibol Adulyadej's advice to sustainably solve the country's flood problems, Mass Communication of Thailand reported on Tuesday.

Yingluck told media after the weekly cabinet meeting that it was resolved to heed the king advice given on Monday on the occasion of marking his seventh-cycle birthday, particularly regarding flood problems as many people still suffer from the flooding.

King Bhumibol on Monday called on all parties to work together to resolve the flood problems and avoid conflict for the well- being of the Thai people and national security as he granted a grand public audience at the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall.

The monarch addressed the public on his birthday, telling his people that all parties should work at full capacity for the well- being of the citizenry as this leads to national security.

Yingluck said that the Strategic Committee for Water Resources Management will meet on Tuesday to speed up the master plan for sustainable water management and to address immediate flood problems.

The premier said she emphasized that cabinet ministers, particularly Deputy Prime Minister/Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit, should quickly resolve the flood in many areas as there are 80-100 housing estates reportedly under water and they should be drained by the year end.

The people should be able to celebrate the New Year in their homes, said the prime minister.

Yingluck said she asked Justice Minister Pracha Promnog who directs the Flood Relief Operations Centre (FROC) to clarify and seek a solution to end conflicts among residents who have differing ideas to tackle flood problems.

She said every conflict must have a solution and that rehabilitation measures should be offered to the flood victims.

The country's worst floods, caused by heavy monsoon and overflow from several dams across the country, in nearly 60 years have claimed more than 600 lives and affected about 10 million people since mid July.

Editor: Yamei Wang

English.news.cn 2011-12-06 16:58:27 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 6 (Xinhua)

Flood crisis causes $97.15 mln losses to Thailand's national airline in Q4

2011-12-06T03:22:00.001-08:00

Flood crisis causes $97.15 mln losses to Thailand's national airline in Q4
It is anticipated that Thai Airways International (THAI) will lose about three billion baht (97.15 million U.S. dollars) in revenues in the fourth quarter of this year due to the most severe floods, the agency's President Piyasvasti Amranand said Tuesday.

Surveying the airline's damage at flood-hit Don Mueang Airport, Piyasvasti said the number of tourists from South Korea, Japan and China dropped 40 to 50 percent owing to travel warnings to Thailand from their countries.

Since late October the capital's second airport has been inundated by the worst deluge in over 50 years, forcing some domestic airlines to suspend their services at Don Mueang and move to Suvarnabhumi International airport. The floodwaters surrounding the airport, however, have receded and the area has become dry again.

According to the THAI President, the more than a month-long flood crisis has damaged the airline's aircraft repair buildings, equipment, and administration buildings.

At least two months are needed for the reconstruction of THAI maintenance department at Don Mueang airport, and as the result, the company has to postpone the aircraft improvement project for passenger seats and entertainment equipment, Piyavasti added.

Editor: Mo Hong'e

English.news.cn 2011-12-06 15:49:10 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 6 (Xinhua)

Mekong murder case forwarded to Thai prosecutors

2011-12-05T10:44:00.000-08:00

Mekong murder case forwarded to Thai prosecutors
Police investigators have forwarded the case against nine Thai soldiers accused of killing 13 Chinese sailors early October to the Office of the Attorney General, local media reported Monday.

Provincial Police Region 5 commander Pol Lt Suthep Detraksa told Bangkok Post that prosecutors for international affairs for Region 5 of the Attorney-General's Office were asked to review the case report.

He said the police were still at a loss with regard to the murderers of the Chinese sailors.

Two cargo ships, "Hua Ping" and "Yu Xing 8", were attacked on Oct. 5 on a section of Mekong River near the Golden Triangle area and 13 Chinese sailors aboard were killed. Thai police have pressed charges against 9 soliders from the Third Army Region in connection with the incident. But they denied the charges.

Editor: Bi Mingxin

English.news.cn 2011-12-05 17:54:17 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 5 (Xinhua)

Thai King calls for national unity, stability

2011-12-05T09:50:00.001-08:00

Thai King calls for national unity, stability
Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej Monday called for national unity and stability on the occasion of his 84th birthday.

The King began with thanking his people for their blessings as he made an appearance at Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall to grant the public audience during a state ceremony marking his 84th birthday. He said that the flood, the worst in decades, has prevailed the country for more than 4 months and called for utmost and collective efforts to help flood victims.

He said that the obligation of the government, military and civil departments lies in the pursuit of the national stability and people's happiness. A paramount step to achieve this is to ensure that there is no conflict and no split in the country, the King said.

With many Thais still suffering from the floods, he urged all the parties to put aside conflicts and encourage one another so as to solve the problem as soon as possible. He also suggested those involved in flood relief operations not only to fight against the natural disaster for the moment, but also to keep it in check for the long-run and in a sustainable way. The water-management ideas, he mentioned before were recommended.

The ceremony was attended by Members of other royal families, the commanders of the three branches of the Armed Forces, legislators and diplomats. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, Supreme Court President Phairoj Wayuparp and Supreme Commander Thanasak Patimaprakorn gave speeches representing government, parliament and armed forces respectively to pay homage to the King.

Tens of thousands of people have waited since early Monday along the way from the Siriraj Hospital, where the King currently stays to the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall and shouted "Long Live the King". The government is also staging grand festivals for seven days and nights until Friday.

The King came to the throne in 1946 and is now the longest reigning monarch in the world, deeply loved and respected by his people and the international community. In September 2009, he was admitted to hospital for pneumonia and has since stayed there and made rare public appearance.Queen Elizabeth II, the queen of Britain, sent birthday message on Monday to the King of Thailand for His birthday and offered condolences to the flood victims.

Editor: Yang Lina

English.news.cn 2011-12-05 14:17:39 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 5 (Xinhua)

Royal decree enacted to pardon 20,000 Thai inmates

2011-12-05T09:15:00.001-08:00

Royal decree enacted to pardon 20,000 Thai inmates
His Majesty the King has issued a royal command to pardon some 20,000 convicts nationwide on the occasion of his 84th birthday anniversary, local reports said.

The decree, which was signed by His Majesty the King, was based on the royal pardon decree legislated last year by the Democrat- led government. In the statement published on the Royal Gazette, His Majesty said the inmates should be given a second chance on the occasion of King's birthday anniversary.

This year's royal pardon decree states that the eligible convicts must have been detained in prisons or detention centers sanctioned by courts or government agencies. The 2011 decree is slightly different from the last year's one on the point that inmates convicted in drug cases are also eligible for royal pardon on ground that their jail term must not be longer than eight years.

The Corrections Department has used the criteria of the decree to screen eligible inmates and reported that 20,000 will be eligible. The department said the first lot of 12,000 prisoners will be released on December 8 and the rest will be gradually released later.

There was no name of the ousted ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra on the name list of those who are eligible for the royal pardon.

Last month media reported that the cabinet had approved a draft pardon which was deemed to allow the fugitive prime minister to return without serving jail term, prompting angers from his opponents.

Editor: Mo Hong'e

English.news.cn 2011-12-04 19:44:11 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 4 (Xinhua)

Flood-hit industrial parks in Thailand could resume operations by next March/April

2011-12-05T08:38:00.001-08:00

All seven inundated industrial estates in central provinces of Thailand are expected to fully resume operations by March or April next year, Industry Minister Wannarat Charnnukul expressed his confidence on Sunday.

Speaking after leading a team to visit Saha Rattana Nakorn Industrial Estate in central Ayutthaya province, the world herritage site, he added the government is currently working on a rehabilitation plan and a clear prevention plan for the future.

The Industry Ministry and related agencies are also planning road shows in other countries to boost confidence among business groups showing Thailand has a long-term flood prevention plan and that the flood situation in the country has eased, he added.

A total of seven industrial estates and parks in Ayutthaya and Pathum Thani provinces were submerged by heaviest deluge in over 50 years in October. As a result, more than one million people have been suspended and initial loss has been anticipated at about 3.3 billion U.S. dollars.

Floods inflicted by heavy monsoon rains and back-to-back tropical storms have ravaged the country since late July, killing more than 650 and affecting more than 13 million nationwide.

Editor: Deng Shasha

English.news.cn 2011-12-04 18:10:53 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 4 (Xinhua)

Thai opposition party to seek impeachment of FM

2011-12-05T08:30:00.001-08:00

Thai opposition party to seek impeachment of FM
Legal team of the main opposition Democrat Party sets to seek impeachment of and file criminal suit against Foreign Minister Surapong Tovihcakchaikul on charges in connection with the attempt to re-issue a passport to ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinwatra.

Wirat Kalayasiri, head of the Democrats' legal team, said on Sunday that the fugitive ex-premier is now under black-list of police and the move by the foreign minister to return the passport to Thaksin could be a violation of the law.

The Democrats would both seek impeachment of the foreign minister and file a criminal charge against the foreign minister for alleged neglect of duty as he failed to take steps to arrest the fugitive ex-premier.

The penalty for negligence of state official could sentense Surapong to five to 10 years in jail, Wirat added.

The foreign minister told reporters last Friday that the ministry is preparing to give passport back to former Prime Minister Thaksin as a New Year's gift.

Thaksin's diplomatic passport was revoked in April 2009 by foreign ministry under the then Democrat-led government. The government claimed that the passport needed to be revoked as Thaksin violated passport issuing regulations, which state that the ministry can cancel or recall a passport if it can prove that a person has caused damage to the country.

Thaksin's several phoning-in from abroad in 2009 to anti- government demonstrations by Red Shirt movement was considered as inciting violence.

Thaksin, ousted in the 2006 coup, was sentenced in absentia in 2008 to two-year jail term for abuse of power by helping his then wife to acquire a parcel of commercial land in inner Bangkok at a price far below the market value. Since then he has imposed self- exile abroad and mainly resided in Dubai.

Editor: Xiong Tong

English.news.cn 2011-12-04 16:35:42 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 4 (Xinhua)

Thai ex-PM to give testimony on Red Shirt dispersal

2011-12-05T01:35:00.000-08:00

Thai ex-PM to give testimony on Red Shirt dispersal
Former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and his deputy Suthep Thuagsuban are scheduled to meet with police investigators on Dec. 9 and 8 respectively to give testimony on the crackdown against anti Democrat-led government Red Shirts.

Backed by the ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra and the then Pheu Thai opposition party, the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD), alias Red Shirt movement, staged prolonged and widespread protests against the then Democrat-led government, calling for parliament dissolution and a snap election.

As the demonstration turned into riots, the government ordered forceful dispersal which eventually resulted in clashes between the military and the protesters in April and May. In total, 91 people were killed while nearly 1,900 injured.

Red Shirt supporters and political opponents blamed the government and concerned authorities for the deaths of the people.

The Metropolitan Police initially wanted both to meet them on Dec 2 but the two requested the appointments to be postponed so that they could have enough time to prepare documentations.

Suthep said that he was summoned as a witness not a suspect.

Editor: Xiong Tong

English.news.cn 2011-12-04 14:09:20 FeedbackPrintRSS
Backgrounder: Abhisit--Thailand's trouble-ridden PM

BANGKOK, Dec. 4 (Xinhua)

Bangkok to be dry before New Year: Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra

2011-12-05T01:32:00.000-08:00

Bangkok to be dry before New Year: governor
Floodwaters will be dried out in Bangkok by the end of this year, Bangkok governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra said on Sunday morning.

"Bangkok will dry before the end of this month because I want it as a New Year gift for all Bangkok residents," he said.

The governor also expressed concern over the ongoing flood situation in the western side of the capital as water level in some important canals are still high.

Officials of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will surround each inundated area and then drain the flood water out to ensure that they all will dry before the New Year, he added.

Currently a total of 36 out of 50 districts in Bangkok are still facing with floods which are considered the worst in more than half a century.

Editor: Xiong Tong

English.news.cn 2011-12-04 13:33:54 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 4 (Xinhua)

Thai-Myanmar checkpoint to be reopened Monday

2011-12-05T00:59:00.001-08:00

Thai-Myanmar checkpoint to be reopened Monday
The Mae Sot-Myawaddy checkpoint on the Thai-Myanmar border will be reopened Monday after more than a year of closure, the Bangkok Post reported on Saturday.

Deputy governor of the border province of Tak Wuthi Sithisurat said on Saturday that he had been confirmed of the reopening of the checkpoint by the governor of Myawaddy, Myanmar.

Myanmar had invited Thai authorities and leading members of the Tak Chamber of Commerce and Federation of Thai Industries to attend the opening ceremony of a border economic zone on December 5.

The ceremony would also be attended by high-level officials from Myanmar capital Nay Pyi Daw.

The check-point has been closed since July 18 last year.

The Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge would be opened as usual.

The Bangkok Post said the reopening of the Mae Sot-Myawaddy checkpoint followed a contact between Thai Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul and his Myanmar counterpart.

Editor: Yang Lina

English.news.cn 2011-12-03 17:56:03 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Dec. 3 (Xinhua)

Thai Prime Minister in good condition after hospitalized with food poisoning

2011-11-29T08:36:00.000-08:00

Thai PM in good condition after hospitalized with food poisoning
Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra needs to rest for a couple of days after admitted to hospital on Tuesday morning, her doctor said.

On Tuesday afternoon, Arthit Jiaranaisilawong, assistant director of Rama 9 hospital, said in a press briefing that after the diagnostic, the doctors concluded that the premier is suffering from diarrhea caused by food poisoning.

Yingluck was given medicines and saline solution and now in a good condition, he said.

The regular cabinet meeting on Tuesday was instead chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit, focusing on the current flood situation, as Yingluck has been suffering from diarrhea and could not attend the regular cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

Editor: Fang Yang

English.news.cn 2011-11-29 18:48:34 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 29 (Xinhua)

Thai, Cambodian FMs to meet on issue of 2 jailed Thai activists

2011-11-29T08:18:00.000-08:00

Thai, Cambodian FMs to meet on issue of 2 jailed Thai activists
Thailand's Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul and his Cambodian counterpart Hor Namhong would hold bilateral meeting soon in order to discuss possible options for helping free two Thai activists detained in Phnom Penh for espionage, a statement from Thai Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.

According to the statement, Thai foreign minister would raise several issues including boundary committees, bilateral cooperation as well as the detained Thais for discussion with Cambodia's deputy prime minister and foreign minister Hor Namhong.

Regarding Veera Somkwamkid and his secretary Ratree Pipattanapaiboon from Thai Patriots Network who have been arrested and imprisoned since December 2010, Surapong said he would consult with his Cambodian counterpart if the two are entitled to pardon.

Along with five other Thais, Veera and Ratree were arrested by the Cambodian authorities in Cambodia's Banteay Meanchey province opposite from Thailand's eastern Sa Keo province for illegal entry without permission. Veera and Ratree were charged for spying which resulted in several-year jail term when the five others received suspended nine-month sentence in January and already returned to Thailand.

Editor: Fang Yang

English.news.cn 2011-11-29 17:00:39 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 29 (Xinhua)

Thailand's flood death toll reaches 621

2011-11-29T08:09:00.001-08:00

Thailand's flood death toll reaches 621
A total of 621 people were confirmed dead and three others were missing in the floods that have inundated the upper part of Thailand for about four months, the country's Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported on Tuesday.

Six more people were confirmed dead on Monday in the central provinces of Phitsanulok and Nakhon Pathom.

Ayutthaya has the highest death toll where 110 people were killed in the floods, followed by Nakhon Sawan where 72 people were killed.

Floods were caused by the heavy monsoon "Nock-Ten" and overflow from several dams in upper part of the country since mid-July.

On Monday, floods still prevailed in 15 of 77 provinces and affected about 4.9 million people from 1.8 million households.

The flood have affected a total of 4 million households and about 13.4 million people in 64 of 77 provinces since July 25.

Editor: Bi Mingxin

English.news.cn 2011-11-29 16:47:19 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 29 (Xinhua)

Thai PM Yingluck hospitalized with food poisoning

2011-11-28T23:49:00.000-08:00

Thai PM Yingluck hospitalized with food poisoning
Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra was admitted to hospital Tuesday morning due to diarrhea caused by food poisoning, the Thai government said.

Yingluck now stays in Rama 9 hospital in downtown Bangkok and she has not canceled any schedule yet, an official at the Government House told Xinhua.

The regular cabinet meeting on the day was instead chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit, focusing on the current flood situation, the government said in a news release.

Editor: Xiong Tong

English.news.cn 2011-11-29 11:17:07 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 29 (Xinhua)

Flooding in Bangkok Likely to Persist for One Month

2011-11-08T21:24:00.001-08:00

Flooding in Bangkok Likely to Persist for One Month

Energy Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said that the flooding situation in Bangkok is likely to persist for one month, while the water level in the city is expected to begin to subside after the middle of November.

Minister Pichai said that various affected factories would resume their operations within the next three to four months. The Government has rehabilitation plans to bring quick recovery to industrial estates whose operations and facilities have been damaged by the flooding. If the factories needed to replace their devices and equipment, they would be encouraged to turn to energy-saving ones.

He said that 140 water pumps would be used to drain water out from the Saha Rattana Nakorn Industrial Estate and the Rojana Industrial Park in Ayutthaya province on November 10. Water drainage in other industrial estates would also be accelerated. As for the affected people, he said, the Government has prepared a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to assist them.

Regarding flood control in Bangkok, the Flood Relief Operations Center revealed that the six-kilometer-long barrier, or the “Big Bag” floodwall, which had been set up recently, would help slow down the flow of water from the north of Bangkok to a certain extent. This would also enable the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to drain water more efficiently. The setting up of the Big Bag floodwall is also being considered in Bang Kruai to slow down the water flow in the western side of Bangkok.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration thanked the Flood Relief Operations Center for providing it with more water pumps to help drain water in eastern Bangkok, as the situation is still worrisome. It is also concerned about the flooding situation in the western part of the city.

According to the Flood Relief Operations Center, a number of water pumps were imported by the Government and some were donated by the private sector. It believed that if the volume of the in-flow was brought down, water drainage by the Bangkok city should be manageable. Moreover, the Government has sent a team to assist the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to drain water into various canals. The problem of leaks in embankments in various areas is being rectified in an effort to control flood water in the city.

A report from the Emergency Operation Center for Flood, Storms, and Landslide on November 6 indicated that 25 provinces were still suffering from the flooding and more than 500 people have died, with two missing persons. More than one million families, comprising over three million people, have been affected.

The flooding has damaged 10.9 million rai, or almost 4.4 million acres, of farmland in the country.

The Government Public Relations Department

Flooded Districts of Bangkok Given a Helping Hand from the Provinces

2011-11-08T21:22:00.001-08:00

Flooded Districts of Bangkok Given a Helping Hand from the Provinces

Governors of the provinces that have not been affected by the flooding have been instructed to offer a helping hand to 18 flooded districts of Bangkok.

The instruction was made by the Ministry of Interior, which told 18 provinces to set up kitchens to supply food to the affected districts in the city. The Ministry of Interior has also brought in large trucks from the provinces to transport Bangkok residents in order to facilitate their travel.

There are 50 districts in Bangkok. Eighteen districts have been flooded to varying degrees. Out of them, 12 were declared evacuation zones and the rest partial evacuation zones. The 12 evacuation zones include Don Mueang, Sai Mai, Lak Si, Bang Khen, Bang Phlat, Taling Chan, Thawi Watthana, Bang Khae, Phasi Charoen, Nong Khaem, Chatuchak, and Khlong Sam Wa. Some other districts are also on full alert.

A report from the Flood Relief Operations Center (FROC) said that, in the overall picture, floodwater was spreading into inner Bangkok on a wider scale. People have been advised to monitor the situation closely and check information before traveling, as certain roads are impassable.

FROC and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) on November 7 held discussions on the provision of water pumps to BMA to accelerate water drainage. Originally, BMA asked for the support of 60 water pumps. FROC agreed to provide 71 water pumps, 48 of which were imported, and the rest would come from the provinces. These machines are expected to help BMA drain water into the sea at the capacity of 132 cubic meters per second. Moreover, 255 more water pumps will be sent from China and will be presented to BMA to enhance the efficiency of its water management.

Regarding the building of the “Big Bag” floodwall on Rangsit-Mueang Ek Road to reduce the volume of water flowing into the Don Mueang area, FROC reported that the Big Bag barrier, comprising extra-large sandbags, was starting to bear fruit, as it had proved successful in slowing down the flow of water in northern Bangkok.

BMA stated that the flooding situation in the city was still worrisome and that it hoped that the Big Bag floodwall would help ease the situation. The city administration is also concerned about the higher volume of uncollected garbage each day. BMA usually collects about 8,700 tons of garbage a day. Because of the flooding, the volume of its garbage collection recently dropped to 7,000 tons a day.

As floodwater has reached the Thai Airways International Headquarters on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, THAI decided to move its ticketing services temporarily to ensure work continuity. Passengers may contact its ticket offices on Larn Luang Road, Silom Road, and at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The Government Public Relations Department

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra delivered remarks to the Thai and foreign press regarding the rehabilitation measures

2011-11-08T01:12:00.000-08:00

Flood Situation in Thailand - Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra delivered remarks to the Thai and foreign press regarding the rehabilitation measures

Today at 13.00 hours, at the Inner Santi Maitri Building, Government House, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra delivered remarks to the Thai and foreign press regarding the rehabilitation measures. In attendance were Deputy Prime Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Kittirat na Ranong, Minister of Justice and FROC Director Pol. Gen. Pracha Promnog, and Dr. Veerapong Ramangkul. The Prime Minister spoke on the Strategic Measures for the Country's Rehabilitation, summary is as follows.

The current flood situation has seriously and extensively affected the livelihood of the people, and the government has been quick to respond by integrating all government agencies and establishing the Flood Relief Operation Center (FROC), which has provided assistance to all those affected. In some parts of the country the situation has begun to ease, floods have been diverted or naturally flowed out to the open sea. The Government will continue to effectively and promptly rehabilitate the flooded area and provide remedies for those affected. Thailand will also have to be ready to build confidence, regain trust, and restore the country's prosperity and stability in a long-term, in a manner that is sustainable and systematic.

The Government's strategy for the country's rehabilitation can be separated into three parallel phases, namely, the 3 Rs, rescue, restore and rebuild.

In the immediate phase, the FROC was established to address the immediate needs of the people and the flood management, as well as foreign assistance.

In the short term phase, or one year ahead, there will be provision of remedies, financial assistance, loans and various privileges. A committee dedicated to these provisions was also set up under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Yongyoot Wichaidit.

In the long term phase, work will continue to build confidence and restore the country's prosperity and stability. For this phase, two committees have been set to carry forward the effort as soon as the water recedes, namely the Strategic Formulation Committee for Reconstruction and Future Development and the Strategic Formulation Committee for Water Resources Management. The first committee will be chaired by Dr. Veerapong Ramangkul, and the second committee chaired by the Prime Minister, with the Deputy Prime Minister as designate, and advised by Dr. Sumet Tantivejkul.

The most important message is that the Government, through all government agencies and the armed forces and police, has put in the utmost effort in solving the crisis, as a national agenda. The Government has placed the safety and wellbeing of the people as the top priority, and is ready to face the challenges ahead. We will continue to build confidence in the Kingdom, so as to lead the country forward with stability. To this end, we will together build a stronger Thailand.

In addition, Dr. Veerapong Ramangkul, chair of the Strategic Formulation Committee for Reconstruction and Future Development, also delivered remarks. He focused on the building of trust and confidence, particularly of foreign investors, who may be reconsidering their investments in Thailand. Confidence-building entails an enormous effort and focus, and we will be building trust in our economic stability, our efficiency, and that our economic fundamentals remain strong. This also includes the sustainability of our monetary and financial system, and our economic potential and opportunities for new investment. We are also thinking about how this plan would link up with the development needs of our neighboring countries. Our attention is also given to the close communication with the foreign investment community in Thailand, and we will also reach out to potential foreign investors abroad.

The Prime Minister also opened up an opportunity for the Thai and foreign press to ask questions. There were questions on measures prepared to rehabilitate industrial estates, the reaching out to foreign investors, particularly Japan, as well as the compensation for damages to the agricultural industries and labor.

Flood Relief Operations Center (FROC)
8 November 2011

Thailand and Chile stand ready to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and Chile

2011-11-08T01:08:00.001-08:00

Thailand and Chile stand ready to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and Chile

On 7 November 2011, Mr. Javier Becker Marshall, Chilean Ambassador to Thailand, paid a courtesy call to Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul during which the Ambassador expressed his condolences to the Government and people of Thailand regarding the current flood situation. He also expressed Chile’s readiness to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries, especially the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations in 2012.

The Ambassador informed the Foreign Minister that Chile donated 25,000 USD to Thailand through the Thai Red Cross Society to help the flood victims. Regarding the Celebration of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries, the Chilean side would arrange some activities such as “Taste of Chile” Food Festival and Music performance, which would help to enhance the bilateral relations, especially in people-to-people contact. In addition, the Ambassador expressed his hope that the Free Trade Agreement between Thailand and Chile would be concluded and signed by the two sides at the earliest occasion in order to build confidence for the Chilean investors who were interested in investing in Thailand.

Foreign Minister Surapong congratulated the Ambassador upon his assumption of duty and expressed Thailand’s readiness to further enhance cooperation with Chile. Thailand is planning number of activities to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations such as issuance of Commemorative Thai-Chilean Stamp, Thailand – Chile Film Festival, Painting Competition and building of Thai Pavilion in “Plaza Tailandia” in Santiago, Chile. Moreover, the Foreign Minister is looking forward to holding a bilateral meeting with the Chilean Foreign Minister during the upcoming APEC Ministerial Meeting to discuss ways to strengthen the bilateral cooperation.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam provides flood relief assistance to Thailand

2011-11-08T01:07:00.001-08:00

Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam provides flood relief assistance to Thailand

On 4 November 2011, Dato Paduka Haji Khamis bin Haji Tamin, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Thailand paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, during which he presented flood relief assistance worth 100,000 USD (3 million baht approximately) to Thailand.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

European Union provides assistance to flood victims

2011-11-08T01:06:00.002-08:00

European Union provides assistance to flood victims

On 3 November 2011, Mr. David Lipman, Ambassador Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Thailand paid a courtesy call to Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul during which he informed the latter that the EU would be providing flood relief assistance worth two million euros to Thailand. This would be carried out through two organizations, namely, the Thai Red Cross Society which will receive 1.5 million euros (approximately 60 million baht) to help with the purchase of relief supplies such as electricity generators for temporary shelters and mobile kitchens, and the Save the Children UK which will receive 0.5 million euros (approximately 20 million baht) to assist with provision of temporary shelters for children affected by the floods.

The Ambassador also indicated that the European Union could also send a Civil Protection Mission to provide additional support in areas in which EU has expertise, including water management, doctors and engineers as well as equipments such as water treatment plants and water pumps. The Foreign Minister expressed appreciation for the assistance and support extended by the EU. The Thai side would also consider the EU’s kind offer to send a Civil Protection Mission to Thailand and to provide additional support to Thailand in due course.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of the Republic of Union of Myanmar provides flood relief assistance to Thailand

2011-11-08T01:06:00.000-08:00

Ambassador of the Republic of Union of Myanmar provides flood relief assistance to Thailand

On 3 November 2011, U Aung Thein, Ambassdor of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, during which he presented flood relief assistance to Thailand. Consist of two tons of instant noodles and seven tons of bottled water, the relief supplies have been shipped to U-Tapao International Airport and been transported to Suppachalasai National Stadium to be distributed to flood victims.

In response, the Foreign Minister expressed his appreciation for the assistance from the Myanmar Government which underscores the close ties between the two countries. Furthermore, he expressed condolences for the recent floods in Myanmar and the Thai Government’s readiness to provide assistance to Myanmar. The Foreign Minister also stressed the importance of cooperation among the countries in the region, many of which have also been affected by the floods, to develop flood prevention and recovery measures.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Enhancing cooperation between Thailand and Afghanistan

2011-11-08T01:05:00.000-08:00

Enhancing cooperation between Thailand and Afghanistan

On 3 November 2011, Mr. Abdul Samad Samad, Ambassador of Afghanistan to Thailand, resident in Malaysia, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, during which the Ambassador congratulated the Foreign Minister upon his assumption of duty and expressed his readiness to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries, especially in the areas of people-to-people contact and trade and investment.

Furthermore, the Ambassador informed the Foreign Minister of recent developments in Afghanistan and requested assistance for Afghan students, especially in the areas of capacity building, training and scholarships so that those Afghan students would be able to continue their studies in Thailand, similar to the Afghan Government’s cooperation with Malaysia and Australia.

Foreign Minister Surapong congratulated the Ambassador upon his assumption of duty and expressed Thailand’s readiness to further enhance cooperation with Afghanistan. Thailand supported the ongoing national reconciliation process of the Government of Afghanistan. Moreover, the Foreign Minister was pleased with the successful visit of the Thai medical team to Afghanistan in September 2011, which had presented vaccines and organized a workshop on maternal and child health care as well as family planning for the relevant public health agencies of Afghanistan.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, received donation from Mr. Kim, Hae-Jin, Vice Minister for Special Affairs of the Republic of Korea

2011-11-08T01:04:00.000-08:00

Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, received donation from Mr. Kim, Hae-Jin, Vice Minister for Special Affairs of the Republic of Korea

H.E. Chaiyong Satjipanon, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, received donation from Mr. Kim, Hae-Jin, Vice Minister for Special Affairs of the Republic of Korea to assist flood victims in Thailand.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of Thailand to United Kingdom joined Ambassadors of ASEAN countries (ASEAN London Committee - ALC) visit Belfast, Northern Ireland

2011-11-08T01:03:00.000-08:00

Ambassador of Thailand to United Kingdom joined Ambassadors of ASEAN countries (ASEAN London Committee - ALC) visit Belfast, Northern Ireland during 17-18 October

HE Mr Kitti Wasinondh, Ambassador of Thailand to United Kingdom joined Ambassadors of ASEAN countries (ASEAN London Committee - ALC) visit Belfast, Northern Ireland during 17-18 October.

During the visit, the ASEAN Ambassadors met with the First Minister of Northern Ireland, the Speakers of NI Assembly as well as private sectors such as the Bombardier Aerospace, Titanic Quarter and regeneration project, and members of NI Assembly and Business Trust.

The ASEAN Ambassadors also visited Queen’s University Belfast where they met with students from ASEAN.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Peru, paid an official visit to the Republic of Ecuador

2011-11-08T01:01:00.000-08:00

Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Peru, paid an official visit to the Republic of Ecuador from 26-30 October 2011. H.E. Sithichoti presented the Letter of Credence to Mr. Lenin Moreno Garcés, Vice President, who was Acting President of the Republic of Ecuador

His Excellency Mr. Kamthorn Sithtichoti, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Peru, paid an official visit to the Republic of Ecuador from 26-30 October 2011. H.E. Sithichoti presented the Letter of Credence to Mr. Lenin Moreno Garcés, Vice President, who was Acting President of the Republic of Ecuador. Vice President Garcés expressed his concern towards the flooding situation in Thailand and reiterated Ecuador’s willingness to cooperate with Thailand on every front. Ambassador Sithtichoti paid courtesy calls on various high-level government officials and diplomatic corps in Quito. He also met with the President of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ecuador, President of Chamber of Commerce of Quito as well as other leading private corporations. On every occasion, Ambassador Sithichoti stressed that he was determined to expand the scope of cooperation between Thailand and Ecuador both at the level of government and private sector. In particular, he would find ways and means to increase bilateral trade and investment volume. In 2010, two-way trade amounted to US$ 318.23 million, an increase of 62.55 % over the previous year. Major exports of Thailand to Ecuador included automobile, auto parts, rubber products, machinery and parts, steel, thread and polyester.

With the “Decade of cooperation among countries in the Pacific,” Ambassador Sithtichoti viewed that Thailand and Ecuador shared a vast potential of cooperation, particularly in areas of fisheries, agricultural-based product, energy and natural resources. He pointed out that the government should act as a facilitator while the private sector as a real actor.

Ambassador Sithtichoti also met with the President of SAM Monteverde, an Ecuadorian company which had a joint venture with Shi-Asia, a Thai company based in Rayong, on the construction of gas pipeline in Guayaquil worth US$ 120 million. The Thai partner will dispatch about 100 engineers, skilled and semi-skilled labor to Ecuador in December this year. This project could be considered one of the largest investment of Thailand in South America. The company is also under negotiation with the local government on the construction of the gas pipeline from Guayaquil to Cuenca with a total investment of US$ 350 million.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of Thailand to Egypt presided over the graduation ceremony of 65 Thai students from Al Azhar University

2011-11-08T01:00:00.001-08:00

Mr. Chalit Manityakul, Ambassador of Thailand to Egypt presided over the graduation ceremony of 65 Thai students from Al Azhar University

On 19 October, 2011 Mr. Chalit Manityakul, Ambassador of Thailand to Egypt presided over the graduation ceremony of 65 Thai students from Al Azhar University. Dr. Ahmad Tayyeb, Grand Imam Sheikh of Al Azhar, upon the the Royal Thai Embassy’s invitation, came to present the certificate of graduation to the Thai graduates. In addition, the Royal Thai Embassy, for the first time, sponsored the parents of the student who graduated with highest score to travel to Cairo to participate in the ceremony.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Venerable Somdej Pra Wanarat and H.E. Prof. Emeritus. Dr. Kasem Watanachai, H.M. The King's Privy Councillor

2011-11-08T00:59:00.001-08:00

Venerable Somdej Pra Wanarat and H.E. Prof. Emeritus. Dr. Kasem Watanachai, H.M. The King's Privy Councillor, Preside Over the Handover Ceremony of the Chaipattana Aerator to Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya

On 24 October 2011 Venerable Somdej Pra Wanarat and H.E. Prof. Emeritus. Dr. Kasem Watanachai, H.M. The King's Privy Councillor and Vice Chairman of Phra Dabos Foundation, and several Buddhist devotees from Thailand visited Bodhgaya and proceeded to perform Royal Kathina Ceremony (Kathina ceremony is monk robe offering ceremony) at Metta Buddharam Monastery.

On 25 October 2011, Venerable Somdej Pra Wanarat and H.E. Prof. Emeritus. Dr. Kasem Watanachai presided over the Handover Ceremony of the Chaipattana Aerator to Mahabodhi Mahavihara Temple. The Aerator was to be installed to purify the water in the “Mucalinda Lake” located south of the main temple.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

The Thai Community Arts and Cultural Center, a non-profit organization in Los Angeles

2011-11-08T00:58:00.001-08:00

The Thai Community Arts and Cultural Center, a non-profit organization in Los Angeles, has organized the 19th Thai Cultural Day on 18 September 2011 at Barnsdall Park on Hollywood Boulevard

The Thai Community Arts and Cultural Center, a non-profit organization in Los Angeles, has organized the 19th Thai Cultural Day on 18 September 2011 at Barnsdall Park on Hollywood Boulevard. It is an annual event for all Angelinos and visitors alike to enjoy a day filled with Thai classical and folk dances, costumes, fashion shows, music, and art as well as to share in the fascinating and intricate art of Thai fruit and vegetable carving.

The Thai Cultural Day has been brought to the public for 19 consecutive years by a grant from the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and hundreds of volunteers and contributors from the Thai community and friends, including the Royal Thai Consulate General in Los Angeles.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Vice President for International Affairs, Chulabhorn Research Institute, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes

2011-11-08T00:56:00.001-08:00

H.E. Mr. Thakur Phanit, Vice President for International Affairs, Chulabhorn Research Institute, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King, to the congregation of monks at Siripunya Magaram Temple, Ipoh, Malaysia.

On 29 October 2011, H.E. Mr. Thakur Phanit, Vice President for International Affairs, Chulabhorn Research Institute, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the congregation of monks at Siripunya Magaram Temple, Ipoh, Malaysia.

Also present at the ceremony were H.E. Mr. A. Kohilan Pillay, Deputy Foreign Minister of Malaysia, H.E. Mr. Thana Duangratana, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia, officials from the Royal Thai Embassy, and Thai community in Ipoh along with Malaysian Buddhists, approximately 200 people in total.

The ceremony was held successfully. Both Thai and Malaysian participants expressed their appreciation to His Majesty the King for his contribution and promotion of Buddhism. The total of donation by His Majesty the King, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Royal Thai Embassy, Thai community, and Malaysian Buddhists, to Siripunya Manggarama Temple is 370,000 baht.

On this occasion, the representative of Malaysian people in Ipoh presented a contribution of 10,000 ringgit (approximately 100,000 baht) to H.E. Mr. Thana Duangratana, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia, to assist flood victims in Thailand

The offering of the Royal Kathin Robes in Malaysia is part of Thailand’s cultural diplomacy which aims to strengthen cordial relations between the two countries, especially at the people-to-people level.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Thanssanee Wanderley Wanick de Souza receives H.M.’s Letter of Commission appointing Mrs. Souza to be the Honorary Consul General of Thailand in Sao Paulo

2011-11-08T00:55:00.001-08:00

Mrs. Thanssanee Wanderley Wanick de Souza receives H.M.’s Letter of Commission appointing Mrs. Souza to be the Honorary Consul General of Thailand in Sao Paulo and Ambassador of Thailand hosts a reception to welcome, the Military Attaché, Colonel Julsri Puranasamriddhi

On 7 October 2011, Mrs. Thanssanee Wanderley Wanick de Souza receives H.M.’s Letter of Commission appointing Mrs. Souza to be the Honorary Consul General of Thailand in Sao Paulo.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Royal Thai Embassy to the Russian Federation has carried out activity in Uzbekistan and Yekaterinburg City of Russia

2011-11-08T00:54:00.001-08:00

Royal Thai Embassy to the Russian Federation has carried out activity in Uzbekistan and Yekaterinburg City of Russia to humbly celebrate the auspicious occasion of the 84th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol of Thailand

Between 30 September and 8 October 2011, the Royal Thai Embassy to the Russian Federation has carried out activity in Uzbekistan and Yekaterinburg City of Russia to humbly celebrate the auspicious occasion of the 84th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol of Thailand together with the Thai, Uzbekistani and Russian citizens. The activity is as follows:

In Uzbekistan, 30 September - 6 October 2011, the Embassy has organized the mobile exhibition of the biography, works and achievements for the benefits of the Thai people and Thailand of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand in 3 important cities of Uzbekistan, namely, Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent. Significantly, on the 5 October 2011, the Embassy, together with the Royal Thai Consulate in Tashkent and the Ministry of Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, jointly organized a photo-exhibition of His Majesty the King of Thailand, the mobile exhibition of the biography, works and achievements of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand, which was followed by a reception with the audience of 150 guests. The said event also signified the celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2011, the official closing ceremony of the Photo-Exhibition of His Majesty the King of Thailand, and the further enhancement of cultural ties between Thailand and Uzbekistan and between the peoples of the two countries.

In Yekaterinburg, on 6 - 8 October 2011, the Embassy participated in the international tourism festival “Ural-Expo 2011” during which, the Embassy distributed the publications on Their Majesties’ biography, works and achievements to the Russian people. During the same period, the Embassy also exhibited an exhibition of the Thai-Russian relations during the time of King Rama V and Tsar Nicholas II at the Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land of Yekaterinburg to mark the cordial ties between these two prominent figures, the relations of which have become the foundation of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The above-mentioned activity of the Royal Thai Embassy to the Russian Federation was carried out with a great success as it facilitated the Uzbeks and Russians to increase more understanding about His Majesty King Bhumibol of Thailand and the Thai Monarchy. The activity has contributed to the strengthening of the amity between Thailand and Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

The Royal Thai Embassy in Cairo organized a luncheon meeting for the Thai nationals working in Cairo

2011-11-08T00:53:00.001-08:00

The Royal Thai Embassy in Cairo organized a luncheon meeting for the Thai nationals working in Cairo

On 16 October, 2011, the Royal Thai Embassy in Cairo organized a luncheon meeting for the Thai nationals working in Cairo. Around 100 Thais participating in the meeting were warned by Ambassador Chalit Manitฟyakul to be cautious in their living due to insecurity condition and increasing crime rate in Cairo. In addition, the Ambassador also clarified about the visa problems facing Thai workers. On this occasion, the participants donated 22,550.50 Egyptian pound and 260 US dollars (110,550 baht) to help flood-affected people in Thailand.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Former Foreign Minister, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes

2011-11-08T00:52:00.000-08:00

H.E. Mr. Prachuab Chaiyasan, former Foreign Minister, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the congregation of monks at Bauddha Samakrita Vihar, Bhaktapur, Nepal.

On 22 October 2011, H.E. Mr. Prachuab Chaiyasan, former Foreign Minister, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the congregation of monks at Bauddha Samakrita Vihar, Bhaktapur, Nepal.

Also present at the ceremony were H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Thailand’s Ambassador to Nepal, Mr. Jesda Katavetin, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information, officials from the Royal Thai Embassy in Kathmandu and over 500 Nepalese Buddhists.

The donation from His Majesty the King, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Thai and Nepalese Buddhists, given to the Abbot of Bauddha Samakrita Vihar during the ceremony, totaled 223,100 Baht, 205 USD and 15,000 Nepalese Rupee.

This important religious ceremony not only paid tribute to His Majesty the King’s devotion to the cause of Buddhism both in Thailand and abroad, but also promotes interactions between the Thai and the Nepalese, strengthening relations between the two countries whose majority populations adhere to the Buddhist faith.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador Kriangsak Kittichaisaree has been elected, for an unlimited term, Chairman of the Working Group on Administration of Justice at the United Nations

2011-11-08T00:51:00.001-08:00

Ambassador Kriangsak Kittichaisaree has been elected, for an unlimited term, Chairman of the Working Group on Administration of Justice at the United Nations

Ambassador Kriangsak Kittichaisaree has been elected, for an unlimited term, Chairman of the Working Group on Administration of Justice at the United Nations. The Working Group is one of the only 3 Working Groups on legal matters set up by the UN General Assembly, the other two Working Groups being the Working Group on International Terrorism and the Working Group on Universal Jurisdiction.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, welcomed and hosted lunch in honour of Air Chief Marshal Prajin Juntong, Assistant Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force

2011-11-08T00:50:00.000-08:00

H.E. Chaiyong Satjipanon, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, welcomed and hosted lunch in honour of Air Chief Marshal Prajin Juntong, Assistant Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force

H.E. Chaiyong Satjipanon, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, welcomed and hosted lunch in honour of Air Chief Marshal Prajin Juntong, Assistant Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, who officially visited the Republic of Korea by the invitation of the Chief of Staff of the Republic of Korea Air Force on behalf of the Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, received a donation from the representatives of the Thai Business Association in Hanoi

2011-11-08T00:49:00.000-08:00

Mr. Anuson Chinvanno, Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, received a donation from the representatives of the Thai Business Association in Hanoi

Mr. Anuson Chinvanno, Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, received a donation of 1,000 USD from the representatives of the Thai Business Association in Hanoi (TBA-Hanoi) for the flood relief fund in Thailand.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes to the congregation of monks at Sri Sambodhi Viharaya Temple in Colombo, the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

2011-11-08T00:48:00.000-08:00

H.E. Mr. Domedej Bunnag, Former Thai Ambassador to Cambodia, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes to the congregation of monks at Sri Sambodhi Viharaya Temple in Colombo, the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

On 21 October 2011, H.E. Mr. Domedej Bunnag, Former Thai Ambassador to Cambodia, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the congregation of monks at Sri Sambodhi Viharaya Temple in Colombo, the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Also present at the ceremony were Mrs. Srihatai Bunnag, spouse of Ambassador Bunnag, Mr. Narong Yudhakajkumthorn, Minister Counsellor (Chargé d’Affaires) and officials of the Royal Thai Embassy, and members of the Thai and Sri Lankan communities in Colombo. Vice Admiral DWAS Dissanayake, Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy was the chief guest.

The ceremony was held with great success. The Sri Lankan participants expressed deep appreciation to the Royal Envoy and his delegation for His Majesty the King’s contribution to the promotion of Buddhism not only in Thailand but also abroad. Donation by His Majesty the King, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the Thai and Sri Lankan communities in Colombo totaled 654,876.45 Sri Lanka Rupee and 6,000 baht (Approximately 182,667.02 Baht).

The Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes in Colombo this year helped bring the Thai and Sri Lankan peoples closer, strengthening the age-old ties between the two nations through the Buddhist faith.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Mr. Biravij Suwanpradhes, Consul-General in Sydney, received the cash contribution from representatives from University of Technology Sydney

2011-11-08T00:47:00.001-08:00

Mr. Biravij Suwanpradhes, Consul-General in Sydney, received the cash contribution from representatives from University of Technology Sydney and the Thai Students Association in Sydney.

On 20 October 2011, Prof. Tony Moon, representative of University of Technology Sydney (UTS) presents an amount of AUD 2,000 to Mr. Biravij Suwanpradhes, Consul General of Thailand for the flood relief effort in Thailand.

On 25 October 2011, Mr. Biravij Suwanpradhes, Consul-General in Sydney, received the cash contribution from Ms. Angelica Casado and Mr. Nithi Rojlertjanya, representatives from the Thai Students Association in Sydney. The amount of about AUD 5,500 was raised from Thai students’ activities from all universities in Sydney between 11-24 October 2011, and the proceeds was presented to the Consulate-General to help the flood victims in Thailand

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

620 bank branches across Thailand closed due to flooding

2011-11-07T04:15:00.001-08:00

620 bank branches across Thailand closed due to flooding

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) reported on Monday a total of 620 bank branches have been temporarily shut down due to the country's worst flooding in more than five decades.

Those closed branches are located in eight provinces including the capital Bangkok and other flood-stricken provinces in central Thailand Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Nakorn Pathom, Ayutthaya, Samut Sakorn, Nakorn Sawan and Chainat.

Services for some 5,300 automated teller machines (ATM) in 21 flood-hit provinces have been halted. Among these are about 1,900 ATMs out of nearly 14,000 in Bangkok.

The floods have ravaged Thailand since late July, leaving more than 500 people dead and causing damage of about 23-28 billion U.S. dollars.

Editor: Zhang Xiang

English.news.cn 2011-11-07 19:12:01 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 7 (Xinhua)

Insurance claims during Thai flood to exceed 20 bln USD

2011-11-07T04:13:00.000-08:00

Insurance claims during Thai flood to exceed 20 bln USD

Damage claims from Thailand's flood crisis will exceed 20 billion U.S. dollars, "greater than the impact of the tsunami in Japan," according to authority, the Bangkok Post daily newspaper reported on Monday.

The Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC) said that the damage claims 600 billion baht (about 20 billion U.S. dollars), including actual damage and losses due to suspended business, greater than the impact of the tsunami in Japan, according to an initial assessment by the OIC.

The greatest damage is in seven industrial estates. Combined damage was assessed by the OIC recently at more than 600 billion baht, on a total insured amount of 456.79 billion baht (about 15 billion U.S. dollars). Insurance companies will have to pay 200 billion baht (6.5 billion U.S. dollars) for claims, accounting for about 30 percent of the total loss.

The seven industrial estates locate in central plain in Ayutthaya and Pathumthani.

The Federation of Thai Industries said that the losses from those seven industrial estates would be 300 billion baht (9.8 billion U.S. dollars) to 400 billion baht (14 billion U.S. dollars) , covering 891 factories and 460,000 workers.

About 90 percent of the total flood losses are reinsured, with the remaining sum also reinsured for another time. As a result, Thai insurers will not be hit too badly. Anon Vangvasu, senior vice president of the non-motor claims department of Bangkok Insurance (BKI), said that BKI would take on only 5 percent of the total losses. Affected companies are mainly Japanese manufacturers, and they had purchased risk coverage from Japanese insurers in Bangkok.

He said the losses of companies in the seven flood-affected industrial estates would be classified into three groups: buildings and construction, stockpiles, and machinery. The initial assessment by insurers indicated that buildings will account for 10-15 percent of the losses, stockpiles 40-50 percent and machinery about 50 percent.

After the flood has receded, insurance companies will send assessors to the factories to determine the damage to machinery, then technicians will be allowed entry for maintenance before repairs, for instance applying moisture protection. The final process will be handled by technicians who restore the machines, he said.

The country's worst floods, caused by heavy monsoon and overflow from several dams in upper part of the country, in nearly 60 years has claimed more than 500 lives and affected almost 10 million people since mid July.

Editor: Zhang Xiang

English.news.cn 2011-11-07 19:06:28 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 7 (Xinhua)

470 spots in Bangkok face high flood levels

2011-11-07T02:18:00.000-08:00

470 spots in Bangkok face high flood levels

Recent survey conducted by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) revealed Monday that some 470 spots in the capital city have been submerged under 80cm-high floodwaters.

Overall more than 800,000 residents or almost 10 percent of the city's population in those flood-hit spots have been affected.

Those places are in northern Saimai, Khlong Sam Wa districts, western Nong Khaem, Bang Plad districts and eastern Minburi district of Bangkok.

BMA has instructed local authorities to closely watch people in those spots as a lot of them did not leave their houses.

Until present, 13 districts of Bangkok's overall 50 districts have been affected by the deluge which has ravaged the country since late July, killing over 500 people and affecting more than 9.4 million across the nation. Floodwater intruded the northern capital city during last week of October and continued to creep into its inner areas.

Editor: Yamei Wang

English.news.cn 2011-11-07 17:21:17 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 7 (Xinhua)

Nearly 500 bank branches in Thailand closed due to floods

2011-11-03T03:30:00.000-07:00

Nearly 500 bank branches in Thailand closed due to floods

Thirteen commercial banks along with a financial firm reported that they had now temporarily halted services at a total of 482 branches in flood-hit provinces, the Bank of Thailand reported on Thursday.

Of the total, 196 outlets are in capital Bangkok city and the others are in central Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Ayutthaya, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Sawan, Chai Nat and Samut Sakhon, according to the central bank.

Besides, transactions at 4,506 Automated Teller Machines in the aforementioned provinces were also halted as the banks fear floodwater may cause damage to the machines.

The widespread inundation still prevails in 25 provinces in central and northeastern regions and is putting flood-risk to the inner areas of the country's capital city.

Editor: Fang Yang

English.news.cn 2011-11-03 16:09:34 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 3 (Xinhua)

Thai flood death toll reaches 437, 2 missing

2011-11-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

Thai flood death toll reaches 437, 2 missing

A total of 437 people were confirmed dead and two people were missing in the floods that have inundated the upper part of the country for almost three months, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported on Thursday.

10 more people were confirmed dead on Wednesday -- six in central province of Ang Thong, two in central province of Nakhon Sawan, one in central province of Sukhothai, and one in central province of Nakhon Pathom.

Central province of Nakhon Sawan has the higest death toll of 61 people, following by central province of Phichit, of which 50 people killed by flood.

Flash floods were caused by the heavy monsoon "Nock-Ten" and overflow from several dams in upper part of the country since mid July.

On Saturday, floods still prevail in 25 of 77 provinces and are affecting about 2.1 people from 720,000 housefolds.

The flood have affected about 3.3 million households and about 9.9 million people in 63 of 77 provinces since July 25.

70 main highways in 13 provinces are flooded and cannot be passed and some north-bound train routes were cancelled.

Editor: Fang Yang

English.news.cn 2011-11-03 15:25:38 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 3 (Xinhua)

Open zoo in northern Bangkok swamped

2011-11-03T03:23:00.000-07:00

Open zoo in northern Bangkok swamped

Wildlife park of Safari World, an open zoo in northern Bangkok, was under floodwater rising to 50cm to 1m deep, putting tens of thousands of animals in the zoo in danger.

Floods inundated half of the 800,000 square meters Safari World on Tuesday evening after the sluice gate at upstream Sam Wa canal was raised to one meter from the normal 0.8 meter following violent protests by angry residents.

An executive of the zoo said flood water had engulfed the entire Safari Park zone, which accounts for 50 percent of the zoo' s area, while Marine Park, which occupies the remainder, had yet to find itself under water.

The zoo, nevertheless, has not yet evacuated animals but moved most of the animals to dry ground. Safari World has some 1,000 wild animals, including deer, antelopes, zebras, tigers and caged buffaloes as well as 60,000 fish and more than 10,000 birds for its park zone and more than 20 belugas and dolphins for its marine zone.

Initial revenue loss of the zoo was estimated between 100 million and 150 million baht (3.2 million to 4.9 million U.S. dollars) because visitors dropped by almost 80 percent due to ongoing floods, according to its executive.

The deluge caused by back-to-back tropical storms and heavy monsoon rains since July has hit the northern, northeastern and central regions of the country, killing over 420 people until now. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration announced evacuation in eight districts of the city on Thursday morning as level of floodwater continues to rise.

Editor: Xiong Tong

English.news.cn 2011-11-03 14:26:30 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Nov. 3 (Xinhua)

BMA : Siphoning could save the rest of Bangkok from flooding

2011-10-31T23:30:00.001-07:00

BMA : Siphoning could save the rest of Bangkok from flooding

Deputy Bangkok Governor Theerachon Manomaipaiboon, who is part of the water drainage committee, said to save the remaining parts of Bangkok, siphoning would be urgently needed as an addition to the flood barriers to drain the water.

According to Mr. Theerachon, tubes can be placed above or underneath the barriers to drain the floodwater. The idea has been discussed in the FROC meeting with supports expected from the Ministry of Industry and the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority. However, the Deputy Governor claimed he has not received any materials from both agencies so far.

Mr. Theerachon explained that water siphoning by tubes could help drain the water from Khlong Hok Wa in Sai Mai district to the east of Bangkok before releasing it into the sea. He added that these tubes should be installed within the next few days before every district of Bangkok came under water.

Within a few days areas of Chatuchak, Ramindra, Khan Na Yao, Bang Kapi and Huai Khwang could be flooded when the water level in the river rises above the barriers if the tubes are not built. He added that 20 districts of Bangkok would be saved from flooding if the tubes could be installed in 7 days.

BANGKOK, 29 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 29 October 2011

Chon Buri has spaces for 7,000 more flood evacuees

2011-10-31T22:37:00.001-07:00

Chon Buri has spaces for 7,000 more flood evacuees

Chon Buri Deputy Governor Patarathorn Tianchai said the Provincial Evacuation Center located in the Institute of Physical Education Chon Buri Campus is paying good attention to flood evacuees by holding two meetings daily, at 9 am and 7 pm, to discuss the evacuees' problems.

According to Mr Patarathorn who also is director of the provincial evacuation center, the number of the flood victims residing in the center is 1,693 currently, comprising 450 at Building A or the gymnasium, 99 at Building B or the cafeteria, 301 at Building C or school building, 273 at Building D or Campus Building, 440 at Building E or Academic Resource Building and 130 at Building F or Old Academic Resource Building. Combined with 166 flood evacuees at Chon Buri Community Development Learning Center and 132 others at the Institute for Skill Development Division 3, the total number of the evacuees is 1,891.

Chon Buri province has so far provided 9 evacuation centers which can accommodate up to 9,437 flood victims. Until now only 1,891 flood victims have occupied the space, leaving vacancies for 7,546 more people. Moreover, charitable organizations have supported the relief efforts by installing giant-screen televisions free of charge and offering tour programs and recreational activities to help reduce their stress. Furthermore, every district chief has been ordered to look for more accommodations for evacuees as the province has set a goal to accommodate more than 100,000 flood victims.

BANGKOK, 28 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 28 October 2011

Special report: The new schedule for Royal Flora 2011

2011-10-31T22:20:00.001-07:00

Special report: The new schedule for Royal Flora 2011

Chiang Mai Governor is planning to ask the hospitality sector to exempt a reservation fee for tourists who need to postpone their stay as the Royal Flora 2011 has been rescheduled to start from 14 December this year and lasts until 14 March 2012.

Following criticisms regarding the two almost consecutive postponements of the Royal Flora this year, the organizer has now confirmed the new schedule for the event. It will begin on 14 December this year and end on 14 March 2012.

In his explanation, Chiang Mai Governor M.L. Panadda Disakul said the new timing would better suit the event given that now the flooding crisis still prevails in the lower northern and central regions. Many Thais are still coping with the disaster and roads, mainly the Asia road, going to the North have been cut off by floods.

Thai people have been overwhelmed by the impact of the deluge and are not ready to launch a trip to see the Royal Flora. The Governor added that the opening of the event will be in winter, which the Department of Meteorology has forecast to last longer this year.

Tourism in this time of the year will make the trip to see thousand species of plants even more exciting. The coldest time of the year, as predicted by the meteorologists, will begin from mid-December to early January next year; therefore, the decision to set up a new date for the event was reasonable.

For those who have made advance room reservations in Chiang Mai, M.L. Panadda will discuss with the representatives from the hospitality business, airlines and the State Railway of Thailand to exempt the incurred fee for those who were forced to change their reservations or train tickets to be closer to the opening day.

The Royal Flora 2011 will be held to celebrate the 84th Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty the King, the 80th Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit and the 60th Birthday Anniversary of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn. So far, all of 140,000 tickets have been bought in advance of the event.

Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 28 October 2011

Royal Thai Airforce has aircrafts moved out from its airstrip at Don Mueang

2011-10-25T22:54:00.001-07:00

Royal Thai Airforce has aircrafts moved out from its airstrip at Don Mueang

Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Airforce (RTA),Air Chief Marshal Itthaporn Subhawong issued an order to move all aircrafts out of the RTA Airstrip in Don Mueang district after flood water had covered the RTA's territory.

Air Vice Marshal Monthon Satchukorn, the Air Force Spokesperson, said that RTA had all of the aircrafts and helicopters on the flood relief mission moved out from its airstrip after the northern zone of the Don Mueang Royal Thai Airforce Base had been submerged by flood and the overflow had poured into the airport zone. All aircarfts, which will continue on their flood relief mission, will fly from other bases near Bangkok.

RTA earlier moved aircrafts under reparation or maintenance out of the airstrip, while prompting the remaining to be ready to fly out as flood approached.

BANGKOK, 26 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 26 October 2011

Commercial banks remain open during 27-31 Oct. holidays

2011-10-25T22:53:00.001-07:00

Commercial banks remain open during 27-31 Oct. holidays

Commercial banks and the stock market will remain operational despite the special October 27-31 holidays.

According to the Bank of Thailand, commercial banks will continue to provide services to keep economic activities going. Likewise, the Stock Exchange of Thailand will carry on with the trading as usual.

The Cabinet yesterday declared 27-31 October special public holidays in 21 flood-torn provinces to enable the residents to brace themselves for the floods, which could worsen as a result of the rising tide. The tide is predicted to start rising on October 26 and to peak on October 31. The holidays are also expected to facilitate the rescue and relief operations.

BANGKOK, 26 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Vipaporn Pooritanasarn
News Date : 26 October 2011

Don Mueang Airport has closed its runways from today until 1 November

2011-10-25T22:51:00.000-07:00

Don Mueang Airport´s runway closes

Don Mueang Airport has closed its runways from today until 1 November.

Group Captain Kantpat Mangalasiri, Director of Don Mueang Airport, said Don Mueang Airport must close its runways from 14.00hr 25 October to 17.00hr 1 November 2011 due to the flood crisis.

To ensure that the runways are safe enough for aircraft operations and comply with the law promulgated by Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), the Airport Director decided to issue Notice to Airman (NOTAM) to warn pilots and relevant persons on such changes caused by flood water because the runway friction does not meet standard and the electrical power house is unserviceable which inevitably effect Air Navigation Aids. However, Suvarnabhumi Airport is still operating.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 25 October 2011

Gov allows imports of necessary consumer goods to reduce shortage during flooding

2011-10-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

Gov allows imports of necessary consumer goods to reduce shortage during flooding

The government allowed the import of food supply and other necessary consumer goods to initially ease the product shortage problem.

After the urgent meeting regarding the import of necessary consumption products to ease the product shortage problem during the flood crisis, Commerce Ministry's Permanent Secretary Yanyong Puangrach, revealed that three catagories of necessary comsumer goods will be imported.

The three catagories are listed as 1) Food and drink supply catagory including drinking water, canned fish, eggs, condensed milk, soy milk, UHT fresh milk, instant noodles, instant food and vegetables 2) Daily consumer product catagory including sanitary napkins, tissues, soaps and toothpastes 3) The last catagory including water filters and water coolers.

Basically, the Ministry of Commerce, in cooperation with related agencies including the Food and Drug Administration, Customs Department, Liquor Distillery Organization Excise Department, Thai Industrial Standards Institute and the Ministry of Finance, will act as the center for fast track operation to allow the coming of imported products from neighboring countries within one week.

As for the choice of imported goods, the products which will be imported into Thailand must basically come from the Thai manufactureres whose fatories are based in Asian countries and are the old importers, with the same standards as products in the Thai market. Meanwhile, retailers and wholesalers from the private sector will take charge of selecting the imported products based on the customer demand which is being estimated by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) against the remaining amounts of the products in the market. Moreover, there is the need to find additional product distribution centers as the one in Don Mueang Airport has a capacity to contain only 10% of the whole consumer goods.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011(NNT)- Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 25 October 2011

More banks resume services after flood subsided

2011-10-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

More banks resume services after flood subsided

The Thai Bankers' Association President Mr. Chartsiri Sophonpanich said the Association would try to encourage all banks to resume their services after the flood while maintaining that the scale of damage from floods could not be estimated yet.

The President added that banks would be opened in the areas with receding flood waters; however, if they can’t open for services; bank executives will coordinate with other branches to try to get the service in operation for the people.

Mr. Chartsiri said the damage could not be estimated for the time being; however, the bank will continue to care for the financial situation of flood victims. 277 banks have now resumed their services while 2,500 ATM machines have been severely damaged in the inundation.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 25 October 2011

Flood forces postponement of House meeting to 2-3 Nov

2011-10-25T22:45:00.000-07:00

Flood forces postponement of House meeting to 2-3 Nov

House Speaker Somsak Kiatsuranont has decided to adjourn the House meeting this week to 2-3 November in order to allow the Government to fully devote itself to solving the flood problem.

As a consequence of the Cabinet resolution designating 27-31 October as national holidays, the weekly House meeting on 27 October automatically had to be cancelled, leaving only the first portion on 26 October to be convened.

House Speaker Somsak then called a meeting with members of the 35 House committees to discuss whether the 26 October meeting should be held or not. After consulting with his deputy Charoen Chankomol, the House Speaker came to a decision to reschedule this week’s meeting for next week, or from 2 to 3 November.

The meeting’s postponement is aimed at facilitating the Government in dealing with the current flood crisis and allowing it to tackle the problem as quickly as possible. Furthermore, a number of MPs and parliamentary officials have already become victims of the flood while others would have difficulties traveling to attend the House meeting amid the disaster.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Surapan Laotharanarit
News Date : 25 October 2011

Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarifies US's decision not to send rescue choppers to help flood victims

2011-10-25T22:42:00.001-07:00

MFA clarifies US’s decision not to send rescue choppers to help flood victims

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has explained that the US cannot provide Thailand with helicopters for the rescue of flood victims due to its assessment that the flood situation in the Kingdom is not critical.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson and Director-General of the Department of Information Thani Thongpakdi denied a recent report that the US had decided to withdraw its assistance for flood victims after the Thai government rejected its help. He admitted that the US could not send its rescue helicopters to Thailand as planned but it was because of its discovery that the flooding disaster had not reached a life-threatening level.

Although the governments of Thailand and the US have been working together closely, the Spokesperson stressed that this change of plan was caused by legal limitations of the latter.

The USS George Washington aircraft carrier and accompanying ships have reportedly departed from Thai waters and are now moving on to their next destination. Nonetheless, the US has already given Thailand other forms of assistance, such as cash donations, necessities and the know-how related to water management. A team of experts will also remain in Thailand for now to help evaluate the flood situation.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Surapan Laotharanarit
News Date : 25 October 2011

Toxic smoke injures 4

2011-10-25T22:12:00.000-07:00

Toxic smoke injures 4

Four residents in Nonthaburi reportedly suffered toxic smoke inhalation after the embankment in Pathum Thani province broke open yesterday.

According to rescue volunteers from Pohtecktung Foundation, the water pierced through a leak on the embankment near Nonthaburi Bridge around the Suan Somdej junction in Pathum Thani province, causing a three-meter long crack on the embankment which allowed an influx of water onto the ground where a factory is located. Shortly after the spillover, an acrid smell billowed out of the factory, sickening four people who were later rushed to a nearby hospital.

The said area is home to 25 families, most of which have already been evacuated.

PATHUM THANI, 26 October 2011 (NNT) - Reporter : Vipaporn Pooritanasarn
News Date : 26 October 2011

FROC to move flood evacuees to other centers in BKK and nearby provinces

2011-10-25T22:09:00.000-07:00

FROC to move flood evacuees to other centers in BKK and nearby provinces

The Flood Relief Operations Center (FROC) is prepared to evacuate the flood victims to other evacution centers in Bangkok and nearby provinces.

In response to the rising level of flood water on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road yesterday evening Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra ordered the FROC to move the flood evacuees in Don Mueang Airport to other evacuation centers in Bangkok and nearby provinces.

The donated consumer goods will also be relocated to be stored in Chantana Ying Yong Building or the National Statium where people can make more donations from today onwards. Despite the change, the FROC affirmed to support and cooperate with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to give assistances to the flood victims with its best attempt throughout the flood crisis.

Moreover, the Ministry of Transports and the Ministry of Interior were ordered to be responsible for facilitating those flood victims who want to go back to their hometowns or to other areas while healthcare services will be provided all along. Nevertheless, the public is encouraged to keep calm, not panic, stay conscious, prepare to cope with any kind of situations and keep up with the government's statements.

BANGKOK, 26 October 2011 (NNT) - Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 26 October 2011

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra will do her best to protect Bangkok

2011-10-25T22:06:00.000-07:00

PM will do her best to protect Bangkok

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said Bangkok would have the best protection against the massive torrent from the North; however, people should begin to move their belongings to higher grounds as a precautionary measure.

According to the premier, the low lying areas could be under water of 50 cm deep as the water is being drained into Tha Chin and Chao Phraya Rivers to maintain the water level in Khlong Maha Sawat. The sluice gate in Khlong Premprachakon will be closed to lower the level of water going into Klong Rangsit Prayurasakdi and Khlong Hok Wa.

The purpose of this was to relieve the flooding situation in Don Mueang, Lak Si, Sai Mai and inner districts of Bangkok. The Prime Minister points out that if all goes as planned, the inundation would remain no more than 50 cm in the flooded areas.

Meanwhile, Min Buri and Nong Chok, which are in the east of Bangkok and where the northern torrent will be driven past to the ocean, are expected to see the inundation level of 1-1.5 meters deep. However, Ms. Yingluck said if the plan was not successful, Bangkok could be submerged in the water of between 10 cm – 1.5 meters deep depending on the geographical factors.

The Prime Minister assured that she would do her best to mitigate the impact of the floods in Bangkok while also encouraging Bangkok residents to start moving their belongings off the floor.

BANGKOK, 26 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 26 October 2011

FROC prepared to evacuate flood evacuees to other shelters

2011-10-25T22:04:00.000-07:00

FROC prepared to evacuate flood evacuees to other shelters

The Flood Relief Operations Centers (FROC) is prepared to evacuate flood evacuees to other shelters within Bangkok and its vicinity.

The move came in as Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has ordered the relocation of flood evacuees as the flood water continues to rise around Don Mueang Airport. Donated items being stored at Don Mueang will also be relocated to the National Stadium’s Chanthana Yingyong Building which will be the new location for those who wish to donate food supplies or other necessities to flood victims.

The FROC stated that it will take care of flood victims to the best of its ability and support the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration in helping those affected by the deluge until the crisis is over.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 25 October 2011

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra : Bangkok likely to be inundated

2011-10-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

PM: Bangkok likely to be inundated

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has indicated the likelihood of Bangkok being inundated as the massive runoff from the North is expected to reach Bangkok while every effort has been prepared and made to minimize the future impact.

In her national address today, Ms. Yingluck said the water levels are now higher than the flood walls could protect the dry areas. The capital city could be submerged if the barrier could no longer withstand the force of the water.

According to the premier, riverside communities stand the highest risk while the levels of inundation will vary in those situated in and outside of the barriers depending on how effective the water management is in an area.

Ms. Yingluck yesterday visited the giant tunnel with the Bangkok Governor, the Army Chief and Defense Minister. The move was to get every sector to involve in solving the crisis.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 25 October 2011

Yala bombings kills 3, injures 40

2011-10-25T22:00:00.001-07:00

Yala bombings kills 3, injures 40

At least three people were killed and dozens more were injured when a series of bombings rocked the southernmost province of Yala yesterday.

Eight bombs were detonated at several spots in the heart of the city, including a hotel, a restaurant and the old marketplace. Authorities managed to defuse more than 10 bombs. The incident left three people dead; two of them are believed to be the bombers themselves. More than 40 people were injured.

The bombings are coincidental with the 7th anniversary of the Tak Bai tragedy in Narathiwat province. In the incident, arrested 85 protesters who were stacked on top of one another on the military trucks died of suffocation during the transport to the army camp. The tragedy sparked widespread criticism on authorities’ violation of human rights.

YALA, 26 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Vipaporn Pooritanasarn
News Date : 26 October 2011

Education Min delays school reopening date in flooded areas to 15 Nov

2011-10-25T21:42:00.003-07:00

Education Min delays school reopening date in flooded areas to 15 Nov

The Ministry of Education has postponed the reopening of public schools within 12 flood-affected provinces to 15 November while encouraging civil servants to do their part in helping flood victims during this period.

Education Minister Woravat Auapinyakul stated that the Cabinet had given the green light to his ministry’s proposal to have the starting date of the new school semester deferred to 15 November. The delay however is applicable to schools and educational institutions under the supervision of the Education Ministry within 12 flood-hit provinces, consisting of Bangkok, Chai Nat, Nakhon Sawan, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, Lop Buri, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Uthai Thani, Saraburi and Chachoengsao.

Mr Woravat noted that schools, students and parents could visit the ministry’s website, www.moe.go.th, for any further changes and notifications.

Meanwhile, in case Bangkok and its vicinities are deluged with water, civil servants of the Education Ministry will be allowed to take a leave to take care of their homes. However, those involved in the flood relief effort are encouraged to proceed with their duties regardless of the situation.

BANGKOK, 26 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Surapan Laotharanarit
News Date : 26 October 2011

Chao Phraya River expected to overflow this weekend

2011-10-25T21:42:00.001-07:00

Chao Phraya River expected to overflow this weekend

Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra has indicated the possibility for the Chao Phraya River to overflow this weekend; residents along the river are thus encouraged to brace for the occurrence.

MR Sukhumbhand reported that the water level in the Chao Phraya River during the past two days had risen by as much as 1.05 meters to an all-time high of 2.35 meters above the sea level. He then expressed his worries over areas along the river as they would be highly vulnerable to runoff this weekend when the water level was forecast to surge further to 2.6 meters, surpassing the 2.5-meter high embankment.

Therefore, the Governor issued a warning to all citizens living near the Chao Phraya River and canals connected to it, especially Bangkok Noi, Bangkok Yai and Phadung Krungkasem Canals, to move their belongings to high grounds and keep a close watch on the water situation. Those residing outside the embankment are encouraged to evacuate to nearby shelters set up by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).

Though admitting that the effort to reinforce the river embankment could not be made in time, MR Sukhumbhand insisted that the BMA would place its emphasis on the protection of important places, including Siriraj Hospital and royal palaces, from the floodwater.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Surapan Laotharanarit
News Date : 25 October 2011

Chon Buri residents prepare new evacuation center to welcome flood victims from Don Mueang

2011-10-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

Chon Buri residents prepare new evacuation center to welcome flood victims from Don Mueang

Chon Buri residents mobilized forces from government and private sectors to receive the flood evacuees who will travel from Don Mueang Airport to take shelter in Chon Buri province.

Today at the gymnasium of Chon Buri Institute of Physical Education, Chon Buri Governor Wichit Chatpaisit issued an order to agencies from government and private sectors, soldiers, police officers, students and general cittizens to clean the newly-estblished evacuation center in Chon Buri as well as provide mattresses, pillows, mosquito nets, clothes and other necessary items for the flood evacuees from Don Mueang Airport.

Additionally, the new center will also be equiped with facilities, doctors, medicines, sufficient food supply and officials who will take the best care of the flood victims. This evacuation center has a capacity of approximately 900 people, yet, has a possibility to be expanded to receive more evacuees to come. Overall, Chon Buri province is capable of accommodating around 5,000 evacuees.

CHON BURI. 25 October 2011(NNT)- Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 25 October 2011

Metropolitan Police officers sent out to evacuate flood victims from TU evacuation center to Rajamangala Stadium

2011-10-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

Metropolitan Police officers sent out to evacuate flood victims from TU evacuation center to Rajamangala Stadium

The Commissoner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) has dispatched police officers to assist in evacuating the flood victims from Thammasat University to Rajamangala Stadium.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Chaktip Chaijinda has ordered the MPB's flood relief unit to assist flood victims in various flood-hit provinces since this morning. Officers from the Metropolitan Police Division 5 and 8 were dispatched to help evacuate flood victims from Thammasat University Rangsit Campus's evacuation center to Rajamangala Stadium before handing the responsibilities of taking care of the evacuees to officials from Police Division 4. Police officers from Metropolitan Police Division 6 brought 2 boats to rescue the flood-hit residents in Bang Bua Thong district, Nonthaburi province whereas authorities in other areas were ordered to stand by at their offices and assist flood victims in their responsible regions.

Moreover, every police station and the Traffic Police Division are instructed to survey the traffic conditions, set up signs displaying recommended routes for motorists to avoid floods and to prevent the traffic problems from spreading.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) - Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 25 October 2011

Roads are drying up in Chai Nat

2011-10-25T21:32:00.000-07:00

Roads are drying up in Chai Nat

The water levels in Mueang district of Chai Nat have decreased continuously with pick up trucks able to use the highway between Suan Nok and Ban Tha Lap now.

According to the report, the level of water in the Chao Phraya River in Mueang district has decreased by 0.60 meters, prompting the inundation on highway no. 1 in front of the Rice Research Center to decline and allowing daily commute to return to normal.

However, the level of the inundation remains high at 0.70 meters between Suan Nok and the Asia ring roads. Those who need to use the submerged road can travel in a large vehicle prepared and provided by the provincial office and the Artillery Center from Lop Buri province without any charge.

Meanwhile, the current is still strong on the road from Ban Tha Lap to Ban Thammamun due to the leaked flood walls. Pick up trucks should take extra caution using this road

CHAI NAT, 25 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 25 October 2011

Nok Air cancels its service from today until 1 Nov

2011-10-25T21:30:00.000-07:00

Nok Air cancels its service from today until 1 Nov

Nok Air budget airline has cancelled all flight schedules from 12.00hrs today until 1 November due to floods.

Mr Pathee Sarasin, Nok Air's chief executive officer, stated that Nok Air needs to stop its service temporarily from 12.00hrs today until 1 November as flood water has reached the top of Don Mueang runway. Airplanes departing from airports in other provinces are instructed to land at Suvarnabhumi Airport before being parked at U-Tapao International Airport, Chon Buri. Nok Air offers its service of approximately 53 flights per day.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) - Reporter : Supaporn Carusarnpisit
News Date : 25 October 2011

PEA extends electricity payment date for flood victims

2011-10-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

PEA extends electricity payment date for flood victims

The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has extended payment of electricity bills for flood-affected power users.

1. Residential electricity users and small enterprises are allowed to extend bill payment by three more months after due date.

2. Medium and large-scaled enterprises, as well as specific types of businesses, are allowed to extend their electricity payment by another three months after due date without interest.

And in order to strengthen the electricity supply, the PEA had additionally installed transformers at Chulalongkorn sluice gate, Khlong Prem Rangsit Nuea sluice gate, Khlong 13 sluice gate on Lam Luk Ka Road and Khlong 9 sluice gate in Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok area to ensure continuous electricity distribution. For those who need help concerning their electricity system are invited to call PEA Call Center at 1129 around the clock.

As for power users in Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan which are under the responsibility of the Metropolitan Electricity Authority, please contact Call Center at 1130.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 25 October 2011

1,800 flood victims refuse to move out of TU´s evacuation center

2011-10-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

1,800 flood victims refuse to move out of TU´s evacuation center

About 1,800 flood victims have affirmed their intention to stay at Thammasat University Rangsit Campus's evacuation center despite repeated calls for them to evacuate to other centers due to assistance problems that might occur in the long run.

Assoc Prof Dr Kampol Ruchiwit, the vice rector for administration at Thammasat's Rangsit campus, said that authorities had begun to evacuate flood victims at the TU evacuation center to Rajamangala Stadium; however, nearly two thousand flood evacuees insisted on staying further at TU.

Officials at the center are attempting to convince them to move to other places due to the lack of electricity, decreasing amount of water, and fewer volunteers thanks to the hard work. Although some dry food has been stocked up, there might be difficulties in transporting necessary supplies and assistance in the long run. Despite related officials' efforts in negotiating with the flood victims, there is no telling when or whether they will move out of the TU evacuation center.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) - Reporter : Boonyanut Chompan
News Date : 25 October 2011

Moody´s : 2.8% GDP likely for Thailand

2011-10-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

Moody´s : 2.8% GDP likely for Thailand

Moody’s Investors Service has predicted that the flood crisis would cause a sharp fall in the country’s gross domestic product this year.

According to Moody’s Investors Service, the country’s GDP is estimated at 2.8 percent in 2011. In a separate report, which highlights the risks facing Japanese car and electronics manufacturers in Thailand, the credit rating agency also speculated that Honda Motor Co. would see a profit drop by 10 percent as the disaster forced its operation stoppage. Its share prices may fall accordingly. Also sharing the same situation could be Isuzu Motors Ltd., which has just launched a new model commercial vehicle. Most of its production is in Thailand.

Nizzan Motor, Toyota Motor could be a little affected if they are able to find automotive parts elsewhere. Cannon Inc. should get market share from Nikon Corp and Sony Corp., both of which produce high-end DSLR cameras in Thailand.

Although the country’s credit could be negative, the crisis should not hurt the government’s creditworthiness, according to analyst Christian de Guzman.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Vipaporn Pooritanasarn
News Date : 25 October 2011

Nakhon Nayok offers shelter to flood victims

2011-10-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

Nakhon Nayok offers shelter to flood victims

Nakhon Nayok province is offering shelter to flood-hit people.

According to Nakhon Nayok governor Suthipong Julcharoen, the province has several places, including the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy and the provincial sports stadium which are able to house up to 5,000 people. Flood evacuees will be required to register at the provincial administrative information center opposite the health station of Srinakharinwirot University.

For those who can afford private accommodations, Nakhon Nayok also has hotels and resorts which are ready to service them at special rates.

NAKHON NAYOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT) – Reporter : Vipaporn Pooritanasarn
News Date : 25 October 2011

Cambodia receives flood relief assistance from Thailand

2011-10-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

Cambodia receives flood relief assistance from Thailand

On 18 October 2011, on behalf of the Prime Minister, Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Minister of Foreign Affairs, presented a contribution of three million baht to Mrs. You Ay, Cambodian Ambassador to Thailand, to assist the flood victims in Cambodia.

The Foreign Minister also presented the Ambassador with the letter of condolences from the Prime Minister to the Prime Minister of Cambodia, expressing solidarity with Cambodia and other affected countries during this difficult time.

The Cambodian Ambassador to Thailand expressed her sincere gratitude to the Royal Thai Government and Thai people for their generosity in assisting Cambodia in this difficult period. Additionally, on behalf of the Cambodian Government and people, the Ambassador also expressed condolences for the flood victims in Thailand.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Thailand provides assistance to flood victims in Vietnam

2011-10-24T21:25:00.001-07:00

Thailand provides assistance to flood victims in Vietnam

On 18 October 2011, on behalf of the Prime Minister, Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Minister of Foreign Affairs, presented a contribution of three million baht to Mr. Ngo Duc Thang, Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand, to assist flood victims in Vietnam.

The Foreign Minister also presented the Ambassador with the letter of condolences from the Prime Minister to the Prime Minister of Vietnam, expressing solidarity with Vietnam and other affected countries during this difficult time.

The Ambassador expressed his appreciation to the Royal Thai Government and Thai people for their assistance. The contribution made would be a source of encouragement to the people of Vietnam during the difficult period and would help promote closer ties among ASEAN members.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Canadian Ambassador pays courtesy call on Foreign Minister

2011-10-24T21:24:00.001-07:00

Canadian Ambassador pays courtesy call on Foreign Minister

On 14 October 2011, Mr. Ron Hoffmann, Ambassador of Canada to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul. The Ambassador expressed Canada’s concern regarding the current flooding in Thailand and informed the Foreign Minister that Canada stood ready to provide assistance to Thailand.

As this year marks the 50th Anniversary of Thai-Canadian Diplomatic Relations, several activities have been held by both sides to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Bilateral relations between Thailand and Canada have developed significantly in several areas, particularly in trade, investment and education. Through such close relations, cooperation could be further strengthened especially in the area of trilateral cooperation, development of clean energy and technical cooperation.

The Canadian Ambassador commended Thailand for its active role in regional and international fora which include sending peace-keepers to Sudan and the Royal Thai Navy’s mission on piracy suppression in the Gulf of Aden. As Thailand is currently the coordinating country for the ASEAN-Canada Dialogue and as the 35th Anniversary of ASEAN-Canada Dialogue will be celebrated in 2012, the Ambassador underscored Canada’s readiness to continue its engagement with the region and further deepen its ties with ASEAN.

The Foreign Minister also thanked the Ambassador for Canada’s kind offer of assistance with regard to the flood.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs delivers speech at the 10th ACD Opening Ceremony

2011-10-24T21:23:00.002-07:00

Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs delivers speech at the 10th ACD Opening Ceremony

On 10 October 2011, Mr. Jullapong Nonsrichai, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, delivered a speech at the Opening Ceremony of the 10th Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Ministerial Meeting, held in Bayan Palace, Kuwait.

At the beginning of the Ceremony, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah delivered the opening speech, followed by the Vice Minister.

The Vice Minister noted that Thailand, as the ACD coordinator, expressed appreciation to the State of Kuwait for hosting the 10th ACD Ministerial Meeting and extended congratulations on the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the 50 year Independence of Kuwait this year.

The Vice Minister commended Kuwait’s proposed theme for the forum, “Towards a better future for Asian Cooperation”. He also stated that regarding global economic crisis, Asia should take this opportunity to strengthen closer cooperation to enable Asia to become a more active player in the world stage.

The Vice Minister also urged various sectors in Asian countries; namely society, governments and private sectors, to take an active role in the ACD.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations pays courtesy call on Foreign Minister

2011-10-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations pays courtesy call on Foreign Minister

On 13 October 2011, Mrs. Asha-Rose Migiro, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN DSG) paid a courtesy call on Mr. Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Minister of Foreign Affairs, during her visit to Thailand to chair the meeting of the Regional Coordination Mechanism of the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Pacific between 12-15 October 2011. Gists of the discussion are as follows:

1. Flooding situation in Thailand
The UN DSG expressed her condolences regarding the on going flood situation in Thailand and commended the Royal Thai Government’s efforts in dealing with the situation. The UN DSG also expressed the UN’s readiness to cooperate with Thailand on this matter. The UN had conducted a numbers of projects relating to disaster management and prevention, which Thailand could benefit from exchanging information.
The Foreign Minister expressed his appreciation and stated that not only Thailand, but other countries in this region, such as Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam were also facing severe floods. Since all are key food producing countries, food security would also be affected by this disaster. A comprehensive study on the impact of floods on food security should therefore be undertaken to develop the most appropriate solution.

2. Developments in Myanmar
The Foreign Minister said that during the meeting with the UN Secretary-General (UNSG) during the 66th United Nations General Assembly in New York, he informed the UNSG of the improving development regarding Thailand-Cambodia relations and the situation in Myanmar. During the official visit of the Thai Prime Minister to Myanmar on 5 October 2011, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to continue with existing bilateral cooperative endeavors. Regarding the progress made in political development and the national reconciliation process in Myanmar, the fact that the Myanmar Government had released more than 6,000 prisoners, reflects Myanmar’s effort in developing its democracy. In order to support the positive development in Myanmar, the Foreign Minister urged the UN to coordinate with other countries to ease sanctions on Myanmar. Furthermore, in principle, Thailand supports Myanmar’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2014.
The UN DSG was aware of developments in Myanmar and was of the view that there were tremendous opportunities to work closely to support the political reform in Myanmar.

3. ASEAN-UN Cooperation
The UN DSG informed the Thai side that the UN has drafted a report on ASEAN-UN cooperation and hoped that this report would be useful to further strengthen relations between ASEAN and the UN.
The Foreign Minister also informed the UN DSG that Thailand was pleased that the UNSG would be able to attend the 4th ASEAN-UN Summit in Bali this November.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Australian Ambassador pays a courtesy call on Foreign Minister

2011-10-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

Australian Ambassador pays a courtesy call on Foreign Minister

On 12 October 2011, Mr. James Wise, Australian Ambassador to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul and expressed condolences to the flood victims and Australia’s readiness to provide assistance to the Thai Government.

The ambassador also noted that both Thailand and Australia have long enjoyed close relations which involved active participation of the public and private sectors in both countries. Additionally, next year will mark the 60thAnniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and Australia in which both parties agreed to foster stronger ties in all areas, particularly in trade related activities under the Thailand-Australia Free Trade Agreement (TAFTA) framework, which could help increase trade between both sides.

Both sides also discussed and exchanged views on issues such as cooperation between the two countries in science, technology and innovation as well as the exchange of researchers. In this regard, Australia has been a popular country for Thai students to pursue their studies. Similarly, Thailand remains one of Australia’s preferred holiday destinations, with around 600,000 Australians visiting Thailand in 2010 which was a significant number considering the size of Australia’s population.

In this connection, the Foreign Minister also informed the Australian Ambassador of Thailand’s readiness to host the second Joint Commission between Thailand-Australia.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State pays a courtesy call on the Foreign Minister

2011-10-24T21:21:00.001-07:00

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State pays a courtesy call on the Foreign Minister

On 10 October 2011, Mr. Kurt Campbell, the US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul where the Assistant Secretary reiterated the importance of the Thailand-US partnership and the U.S. underlined its commitment to strengthen relations between the two countries.

The Assistant Secretary of State also expressed and extended condolences on behalf of the U.S. President and the people to flood victims in Thailand and offered to provide further assistance and cooperation in solving the current flood problem. Additionally, both parties discussed regional issues such as the current situation in Myanmar, the role of Thailand in the ASEAN framework and the trade and economic policy in the region. The Assistant Secretary of State also commended the efforts by the current Thai Government on the national reconciliation process and people-centred-policy

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

New Zealand Ambassador pays courtesy call on the Foreign Minister

2011-10-24T21:20:00.001-07:00

New Zealand Ambassador pays courtesy call on the Foreign Minister

On 10 October 2011, Mr. Bede Gilbert Corry, New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul. Both sides discussed and exchanged views on a wide range of issues, such as the Thai - New Zealand relations and the results of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s visit to neighbouring countries.

On this occasion, the New Zealand Ambassador highlighted the close and cordial relations between Thailand and New Zealand which could be further enhanced, especially in the field of education. Foreign Minister Surapong agreed and cited the Arrangement of Cooperation on the Advanced Oral Communication Course between the Devawongse Varopakarn Institute of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and Victoria University of Wellington (signed on 27 September 2011) as an example of the successful cooperation in education and English language teaching between the two countries and paved way for future cooperation between the educational institutions of both Thailand and New Zealand. In this regard, Foreign Minister Surapong proposed New Zealand playing a role in developing English language skills for the Thai youth, so as to prepare them for the ASEAN Community in 2015. The New Zealand Ambassador welcomed the suggestion and further informed the Foreign Minister that the authorities in New Zealand had already publicized recruiting New Zealand teachers interested in teaching English in Thai schools. In addition, New Zealand is also pleased to send English language teaching specialists to train Thai teachers.

In this connection, Foreign Minister Surapong informed the New Zealand Ambassador of Thailand’s readiness to host the Second Thai - New Zealand Joint Commission, which would most likely to be convened in early 2012, after the New Zealand general election.

Moreover, Foreign Minister Surapong informed the New Zealand Ambassador of the positive outcome of Prime Minister Yingluck’s official visit to Myanmar, whereby the Thai Prime Minister met and discussed with President Thein Sein on various issues of common interest and cooperation.

With regard to the current flooding situation in Thailand, the New Zealand Ambassador expressed New Zealand’s condolence and informed that New Zealand is pleased to offer NZ $100,000 to assist flood victims through the Thai Red Cross Society.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Thailand and Russia to promote cooperation on trade and investment

2011-10-24T21:19:00.001-07:00

Thailand and Russia to promote cooperation on trade and investment

On 7 October 2011, Mr. Alexander Mariyasov, Russian Ambassador to Thailand, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul and discussed means to enhance bilateral cooperation at all levels. Both sides also discussed preparations for the Celebration to mark the 115th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and Russia in 2012.

In their meeting, the Thai Foreign Minister told the Russian Ambassador that he was pleased to meet the Russian Foreign Minister during the 66th Session of the United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Foreign Minister Surapong expressed Thailand’s readiness to promote close cooperation with Russia on trade and investment and highlighted Thailand’s interest in seeking new markets for its agricultural products and food as well as in developing further military cooperation in terms of exchanging knowledge on military equipment and technology. Additionally, the Foreign Minister hoped that the Fifth Joint Thai-Russian Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JC) could be held at the earliest opportunity. Foreign Minister Surapong also extended his appreciation to the Russian President for his condolence on the recent floods in Thailand.

The Russian Ambassador reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to continue cooperation on trade with Thailand. In this connection, the trade volume between Thailand and Russia has reached USD 4 billion last year and is expected to increase up to USD 6 million in the future. Furthermore, the Ambassador noted that Thailand and Russia would mutually benefit from more cooperation in several areas such as science, information and communication technology and energy. On regional issue, the Russian Ambassador also reiterated the importance attached by Russia to the Asia-Pacific region, noting that it would host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in 2012.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Mr. Tomwit Jarnson, Thai Consul-General in Mumbai led H.E. Dr. Nalinee Taveesin

2011-10-24T21:18:00.001-07:00

Mr. Tomwit Jarnson, Thai Consul-General in Mumbai led H.E. Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, Thailand Trade Representative to meet Mr. Noel Tata, Managing Director of Tata International Ltd. and executive members

On 12 October 2011, Mr. Tomwit Jarnson, Thai Consul-General in Mumbai led H.E. Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, Thailand Trade Representative to meet Mr. Noel Tata, Managing Director of Tata International Ltd. and executive members of subsidiary companies of Tata Group at Tata International Ltd.’s office in Mumbai. Both sides exchanged views on the possibility of promoting Tata Group’s business expansion in Thailand in various sectors such as using Thailand as Tata automobile manufacturing base for exporting to Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, taking advantage of economic stimulus plan of the Royal Thai Government by promoting the first car owner with tax reduction incentive. Furthermore, Tata Group wishes to join with Thai private companies in bidding on infrastructure development projects in Africa.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

The Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi and LuLu Hypermarket organized the Tastes of Thailand festival

2011-10-24T21:17:00.000-07:00

The Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi and LuLu Hypermarket organized the “Tastes of Thailand” festival in 7 LuLu supermarkets across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

From 25 September – 1 October 2011, the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi and LuLu Hypermarket organized the “Tastes of Thailand” festival in 7 LuLu supermarkets across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

On his opening remarks, H.E. Mr. Somchai Charanasomboon, Thai Ambassador to the UAE, stated that the purpose of this festival was to promote the popularity of Thai fruits, vegetables and food products in the UAE, pointing out that bilateral trade between Thailand and the UAE as a whole has steadily increased in the past years. He also expressed appreciation to LuLu for co-organizing the event and for importing a large variety of products from Thailand.

During the festival, in which more than 100 varieties of fruits and vegetables were put on special display at the participating outlets, LuLu customers at the main venue in Al Wahda Mall could follow the twice daily live-cooking show by Thai chefs at lunchtime and in the evening and taste the live-cooked dishes. The Tourism Authority of Thailand also set up a booth to provide information for customers interested in traveling to Thailand. In addition, lucky customers who purchased Thai food products during this week stood a chance to win holiday packages in Bangkok as well as gift baskets of Thai fruits.

“Tastes of Thailand” is a successful event of the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi with the close cooperation of a leading supermarket in the UAE in presenting Thai fresh fruits, vegetables and food products to the consumption and admiration of the people in the UAE.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Thai Consul-General in Mumbai along with officials and staffs from the Consulate paid a visit to Sula and York wineries in Nashik

2011-10-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

Mr. Tomwit Jarnson, Thai Consul-General in Mumbai along with officials and staffs from the Consulate paid a visit to Sula and York wineries in Nashik to survey winery business in India

During 30th September - 2nd October 2011, Mr. Tomwit Jarnson, Thai Consul-General in Mumbai along with officials and staffs from the Consulate paid a visit to Sula and York wineries in Nashik to survey winery business in India. The aim is to get to know the process of production, logistics and marketing plan which will be useful for wine makers in Thailand.

Nashik is suitable, in term of geography and climate, to plant grapes. The city has been home for grape growers for centuries. Later on, the city has become a hub for winery enterprises. Today, from the total around 54 wine producers in India, 38 of them are in Nashik. The city is now known as the "Wine Capital of India".

As the Indian government has maintained a low tax policy for domestic wine production, the wine making business has grown rapidly in both domestic and international markets. The Indian wine is expected to be able to compete with other new world wine makers such as Australia, South Africa or Chile in the near future.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

H.E. Mr. Sawanit Kongsiri, Assistant Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society

2011-10-24T21:14:00.001-07:00

On 16 October 2011, H.E. Mr. Sawanit Kongsiri, Assistant Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes at Vipassana GrahaTemple, Bandung, West Java, Republic of Indonesia

On 16 October 2011, H.E. Mr. Sawanit Kongsiri, Assistant Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the congregation of monks at Vipassana GrahaTemple, Bandung, Indonesia.

Present at the ceremony were Mr. Thanatip Upatising, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Manasvi Srisodapol, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to ASEAN, officials from Royal Thai Embassy in Jakarta and Permanent Mission of Thailand to ASEAN in Jakarta, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and representatives from the Indonesian side including Dr. Heru Budi Santoso, Director of the Buddhist and Education Division, Ministry of Religious Affairs. Also present were Ambassador of Republic of the Union of Myanmar to Indonesia and officials from the Embassy, the Thai communities in Indonesia and Indonesian Buddhists. Approximately more than 1,000 people were at the ceremony.

The total amount of the donation by His Majesty the King as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Thai communities in Indonesia and Indonesia Buddhists was 289,615 Baht.

This event reflected the cordial relations and longstanding friendship between the two countries. It also strengthen the bond between Buddhists beyond different ethnic and cultural background.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

H.E. Mr. Phan Wannamethee, Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society

2011-10-24T21:12:00.000-07:00

H.E. Mr. Phan Wannamethee, Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes to the congregation of monks at Huyen Khong Temple, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

On 15 - 16 October 2011, H.E. Mr. Phan Wannamethee Secretary-General of the Thai Red Cross Society, presided over the Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Robes, graciously bestowed by His Majesty the King through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the congregation of monks at Huyen Khong Temple, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam.

Also present at the ceremony were H.E. Mr. Pisanu Chanvitan, Deputy Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Anuson Chinvanno, Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Somchai Powcharoen, Consul-General to Ho Chi Minh, Mr. Chutintorn Gongsakdi, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Organisations, Mr. Jesda Katavetin, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Information and Mr. Russ Jalichandra, Consul-General of Thailand to Savannaket in Laos, Foreign Ministry officials, officials from Royal Thai Embassy in Hanoi and Royal Thai Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh and over 1,000 Thai Vietnamese and Vietnamese Buddhists.

The total amount of the donation by His Majesty the King as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Thai and Vietnamese Buddhists was 1,128,000 Baht. (36,738 USD approximately)

The Offering Ceremony of the Royal Kathin Ropes is hoped to serve as a paying tribute to the glory of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s devotion to the cause of Buddhism and as a reminder of a special socio-religious ties mutually enjoyed by Buddhists of the two countries.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador Nopadol Gunivibool attended the NUS ASEAN Ambassador Night , held at Tembusu Multi-Purpose Hall, NUS University Town

2011-10-24T21:10:00.001-07:00

Ambassador Nopadol Gunivibool attended the NUS ASEAN Ambassador Night , held at Tembusu Multi-Purpose Hall, NUS University Town.

On 22 September 2011, from 7.00 to 9.30 pm, Ambassador Nopadol Gunivibool, Madame Anchulee Gunavibool, Royal Thai Embassy staff, and members of Team Thailand attended the NUS ASEAN Ambassador Night, held at Tembusu Multi-Purpose Hall, NUS University Town. The event was organized by National University of Singapore (NUS) to strengthen the spirit of ASEAN community and the ties between ASEAN countries, as well as to introduce the newly-opened NUS University Town and its ongoing construction site.

The Royal Thai Embassy supported the event by providing a specialty Thai dish (Pad Thai) and a traditional performance, Rum Deed Hai, which is Thailand’s Northeastern folk dance. There were approximately 120 guests from eight ASEAN nations, NUS faculty, staff and students joining.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

On the occasion of the 500th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Portugal

2011-10-24T21:09:00.002-07:00

On the occasion of the 500th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Portugal in 2011, the Royal Thai Embassy in Lisbon, in cooperation with Museu do Orient (Orient Museum) in Lisbon

On the occasion of the 500th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Portugal in 2011, the Royal Thai Embassy in Lisbon, in cooperation with Museu do Orient (Orient Museum) in Lisbon, co-organize the Exhibition “Thailand: The Glory of Civilization & Five Centuries of Thai – Portuguese Relationship, at Museu do Orient from 14 October to 13 November 2011.

The Exhibition was jointly presided over by H.E. Mr. Chakorn Suchiva, Ambassador of Thailand to Portugal, and Mr. Carlos Monjardino, President of the Board of Orient Foundation, on Friday 14 October 2011, followed by a reception, during 18.30 – 20.30 hrs. The event was attended by invited diplomatic corps in Lisbon, high-ranking officers, academics, media and distinguished guests of Portugal and Thailand.

The Exhibition is well-arranged by Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture of Thailand. Replicas and reproduction of art objects representing different periods of Thai civilizations are selected for this Exhibition along with photographs and information on history of friendship and diplomatic relations between Thailand and Portugal, which reflected then one of the outstanding practices of modern diplomacy in which the two countries and their peoples have dealt with each other as equals.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Thai Student Association in Cairo under the Royal Patronage organized the 8th Mini Football Cup

2011-10-24T21:06:00.001-07:00

During 14 – 24 September 2011, the Thai Student Association in Cairo under the Royal Patronage organized the 8th Mini Football Cup at the Nasser City Youth Sports Center in Cairo.

During 14 – 24 September 2011, the Thai Student Association in Cairo under the Royal Patronage organized the 8th Mini Football Cup at the Nasser City Youth Sports Center in Cairo. The tournament has been organized annually with the support of the Royal Thai Embassy in Cairo aiming to encourage Thai students to make the most of their free time for good health and unity. The opening and closing ceremonies were presided over by Mr. Chainarong Keratiyutwong, Minister of the Royal Thai Embassy in Cairo. There were 40 teams totalling around 400 players from more than 30 student clubs participating in the tournament.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Ambassador Marut Jitpatima accompanied by Mr. Panutat Yodkaew, Second Secretary, paid a call on H.E. Mr. Salman Bashir

2011-10-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Ambassador Marut Jitpatima accompanied by Mr. Panutat Yodkaew, Second Secretary, paid a call on H.E. Mr. Salman Bashir, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and presented him a cheque amounting to US$ 30,000

On 23 September 2011, from 16.00 – 16.40 hrs., Ambassador Marut Jitpatima accompanied by Mr. Panutat Yodkaew, Second Secretary, paid a call on H.E. Mr. Salman Bashir, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and presented him a cheque amounting to US$ 30,000.- donated by the Royal Thai Government to the Government of Pakistan as a humanitarian assistance to the flood victims in the South of Pakistan.

On this occasion, Ambassador Jitpatima, expressed, on behalf of the government and people of Thailand, heartfelt sympathies to the tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction of properties in the South of Pakistan especially in the Sindh Province, caused by the devastating flood. Upon receipt of the cheque, H.E. Mr. Bashir expressed, on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, thanks and appreciation to the government and people of Thailand for the generous offer of humanitarian assistance. He then talked briefly on the flood situation which was caused by torrential rains and floods. He also said that Pakistan considered Thailand as one of the closest friends in East Asia and ASEAN and praised Thailand for its being consistent in showing solidarity and supporting Pakistani government and people during time of crisis.

During the flood crisis of last year, the government of Thailand, Royal family, and Thai general public donated nearly US$ 800,000.- and 20,000 tons of Thai rice worth US$ 14,000,000.- to the flood victims through the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund – 2010 and the National Disaster Management Authority.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Royal Thai Embassy at Moscow has carried out a project of strengthening ties with executives in the governmental organizations of the Republic of Uzbekistan

2011-10-24T21:03:00.001-07:00

Royal Thai Embassy at Moscow has carried out a project of strengthening ties with executives in the governmental organizations of the Republic of Uzbekistan

In accordance with the Royal Thai Government’s policy to strengthen ties and contacts at all levels, the Royal Thai Embassy at Moscow has carried out a project of strengthening ties with executives in the governmental organizations of the Republic of Uzbekistan by assigning Ms. Phasporn Sangasubana, Minister, to visit Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan between 19 and 23 September 2011. During the said visit, Ms. Sangasubana met with following officials of Uzbekistan:

1. A courtesy call on Mr. Tursunali Kuziev, Minister of Culture and Sports Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan on 21 September 2011;

2. A talk with officials from the National Museum of Uzbekistan on 21 September 2011;

3. A meeting with executives of the World MuayThai Council, International Federation on MuayThai Amateur and the Amateur and Professional Muaythai Federation of Uzbekistan on 21 September 2011;

4. A meeting with Vice Rectors of Uzbek State Institute of Physical Culture on 22 September 2011; and

5. A courtesy call on the Committee on Sports of the Senators of Uzbekistan on 22 September 2011.

The Project of strengthening ties with executives of Uzbekistan concluded with a success. The Embassy managed to establish new network of contacts with various governmental organizations of Uzbekistan which will help to contribute to the broadening of ties and cooperation between Thailand and Uzbekistan.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

The Royal Thai Embassy organized the Thai Charity Fair on Friday 7 October 2011

2011-10-24T21:02:00.001-07:00

The Royal Thai Embassy organized the Thai Charity Fair on Friday 7 October 2011 from 12.00-17.00 hrs, at the Thai Ambassador's residence in order to raise fund for flood victims in Thailand, with the close cooperation of the Thai Women’s Club in Abu Dhabi.

The Royal Thai Embassy organized the Thai Charity Fair on Friday 7 October 2011 from 12.00-17.00 hrs, at the Thai Ambassador's residence in order to raise fund for flood victims in Thailand, with the close cooperation of the Thai Women’s Club in Abu Dhabi.

Despite the temperature approaching 40 degrees Celsius, the Fair managed to attract more than 500 guests including Thais, foreign nationals, ambassadors and diplomats in the UAE. Besides their good intention of buying different types of Thai products, visitors enjoyed themselves with Thai food from various regions of Thailand, Thai massage, raffle draws featuring a big prize of a return air ticket route Dubai-Bangkok-Dubai by Thai Airways International, and cultural performances by the youth of the Thai community in Abu Dhabi throughout the Fair.

The Royal Thai Embassy managed to collect an impressive sum of 37,610 AED, 800 USD and 6,120 baht (= 338,470 baht) which was handed over to H.E. Mr. Jullapong Nonsrichai, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs on 12 October 2011. It was equally delightful to see different groups joining hands with the Royal Thai Embassy in this good cause, which reflects the solidarity of the Thai and foreign community in the UAE towards the Thais who are currently in grave difficulties.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

Royal Thai Consulate-General in Mumbai organized Destination Thailand 2011 in Mumbai

2011-10-24T21:01:00.001-07:00

Royal Thai Consulate-General in Mumbai organized Destination Thailand 2011 in Mumbai in conjunction with Thailand Trade Show 2011 organized by Thai Trade Centre, Mumbai at World Trade Centre, Mumbai

During 25-28 August 2011, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Mumbai organized Destination Thailand 2011 in Mumbai in conjunction with Thailand Trade Show 2011 organized by Thai Trade Centre, Mumbai at World Trade Centre, Mumbai with the participation of 65 booths of Thai trade exhibitors.

In this event, the Royal Thai Consulate-General promoted “Thainess” through authentic Thai cuisine cooking demonstration and Thai cultural performances to 25,000 Indians, including Mumtaz, a famous Bollywood actress, best remembered for her roles in Tere Mere Sapne (1971) who attended in this event.

By : Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand

FROC warns people in nine districts of Bangkok to prepare for evacuation

2011-10-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

FROC warns people in nine districts of Bangkok to prepare for evacuation

The Flood Relief Operations Center (FROC) released its 9th statement last night alerting residents in nine districts of Bangkok to evacuation preparedness as the remaining large amount of flood water around the capital still poses a threat to their communities.

FROC Director Police General Pracha Promnog, also Justice Minister, said the latest announcement was made following the FROC’s continuous monitoring of the flood situation, which was seen to possibly inflict damage on lives and property. The nine districts mentioned in the statement include Lak Si, Don Muang, Sai Mai, Nong Chok, Minburi, Khan Na Yao, Lat Krabang, Bang Phlat and Thawee Wattana.

The statement advised residents in the communities to constantly monitor the water levels and prepare to evacuate whenever necessary. They are encouraged to contact the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for more information on the prepared sites of evacuation centers.

Also, people living in Lak Hok sub district of Pathum Thani province and its surrounding areas should frequently monitor the water level in Rangsit Canal. As for those who wish to move from the areas, the army has made ready vehicles to facilitate their journey.

BANGKOK, 25 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 25 October 2011

Water level in Chao Phraya river higher than that recorded in the big flood in 1995

2011-10-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

Water level in Chao Phraya river higher than that recorded in the big flood in 1995

Bangkok Governor M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra indicated that the water level in the Chao Phraya River has reached 2.30 meters today, breaking the 1995’s record, with evacuation warning already issued to those living outside flood walls.

People living outside of the flood barriers along the river have been under evacuation whilst those within the walls are advised to monitor the situation closely. The Bangkok Governor further added that the flood level in Khlong Premprachakon is very high and that people living in the vicinity of the canal should be extra vigilant.

However, the Bangkok Metropolitan Adnministration is going to propose to the government to make this Friday and next Monday public holidays given that the northern torrent will be arriving close to Bangkok and the sea level is rising.

BANGKOK, 24 October 2011 (NNT)-Reporter : NUPPOL SUVANSOMBUT
News Date : 24 October 2011

Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok still open despite flood threat

2011-10-24T02:53:00.000-07:00

Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok still open despite flood threat

Don Mueang Airport general manager on Monday confirmed that the airport is still running normally even though the road in front of the airport has been inundated.

Gp.Capt. Kanpat Mangkalasiri, however, suggested the customers should spare at least two hours before their check-in time as the traffic around the airport is hindered and 20 percent of the airport's flood-affected staff have taken leaves.

If the level of floodwater rises above 30 centimeters in height, the airport administration will dredge the drainage ditch and use water pump to drain the water as quickly as possible.

At noon, traffic police barricaded the Don Mueang Tollway outbound entry at Lak Si district following a report that Phahon Yothin road at the end of the tollway was covered in deep water. The tollway's inbound entry is still open and vehicles can still exit Don Mueang Tollway at the airport terminal.

The airport has been used as the government's Flood Relief Operations Center since early October but now it is under flood threat as massive water runoff are heading toward and overflows from a canal nearby are flooding the area. Don Meaung is one of six districts the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration had warned of possible floods and asked people to evacuate late Sunday night.

Editor: Xiong Tong

English.news.cn 2011-10-24 16:23:41 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Oct. 24 (Xinhua)

Evacuation ordered in outer Bangkok as floodwaters approaching

2011-10-24T02:47:00.001-07:00

Evacuation ordered in outer Bangkok as floodwaters approaching

Bangkok governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra issued forth statement at around midnight Sunday asking people in six districts of northern Bangkok to move their belongings to higher places and move to stay in prepared shelters.

The run-off from Rangsit area in Bangkok vicinity's Phatum Thani province is on its way to Don Muang, Laksi, Bang Khen, Chatuchak, Bang Sue and Sai Mai districts in northern outer Bangkok, the statement said.

The governor always warned again Monday morning that flooding situation in those areas could develop to crisis.

A road in front of Donmuang Airport was flooded Monday morning inflicting difficulty for traffic in the area.

The governor also asked the public to stay calm but closely watch further announcement made by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). The agency also coordinated with the Foreign Ministry to inform foreign embassies in flood-prone areas, added the governor.

Currently, the BMA and related agencies are trying to reinforce embankment on eastern side of Bangkok in an effort to divert floodwaters away from the capital.

Widespread floods lashing the country since late July and continuing to affect 28 provinces in northern, northeastern and central regions have so far caused economic damage of about 400 billion baht (13 billion UD dollars), the figure of which could double if the whole capital is inundated. At least 9.4 million people have been affected and over 350 killed in the worst floods in over 50 years.

A home to about 10 million people, the city is situated in the Chao Phraya delta just two meters above the sea level. This makes protection against floods difficult despite the government's efforts to divert flood waters to the city's western and eastern sides.

Editor: Chen Zhi

English.news.cn 2011-10-24 14:29:26 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Oct. 24 (Xinhua)

Thai PM issues order under disaster act to handle floods

2011-10-24T02:05:00.000-07:00

Thai PM issues order under disaster act to handle floods

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Sunday issued an order under the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act 2007 to enable authorities to better efficiently handle watergates.

The prime minister said in her statement that the deputy director-general of the Royal Irrigation Department is solely authorized to control an important Phra-in Racha Watergate in Pathum Thani province, north of capital Bangkok city. All relevant agencies must follow instruction of the deputy director-general, she added.

The order was handed down following series of protests of the people affected from shutting or opening the watergate which most of the time hindered the authorities from affective flood management.

PM Yingluck Saturday invoked the disaster law which in effect empowers the government to take over the supervision of flood control and drainage in Bangkok as well as sideline Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Under Article 31 of the Act, any persons who impede to authorized officials shall be imprisoned from one month to one year and/or fined from two thousand to twenty thousand baht.

Editor: Yamei Wang

English.news.cn 2011-10-23 18:51:35 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Oct. 23 (Xinhua)

Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra concerns over flooding in parts of Bangkok

2011-10-24T02:00:00.000-07:00

Thai PM concerns over flooding in parts of Bangkok

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Sunday expressed her concerns over flooding situation in Donmuang and Laksi districts, north of Bangkok, as flood waters rose 30 centimeters around Donmuang Airport this morning.

The government has set up Flood Relief Operations Center (FROC) and makeshift camps for flood victims at Donmuang Airport since early October.

Sunday morning, overflow from Klong Prapa, which feeds raw water for the process of tap water, breached the dyke and began to flood some areas in Donmuang and Laksi districts.

The prime minister said she had already ordered relevant authorities to accelerate draining flood waters out of those areas. She also dispelled a rumor that FROC will be moved to eastern province of Chonburi if the center is hit by flood.

She also admitted that the government's attempt to push flood waters into the sea will affect Bangkokians along the way.

"Some of people in Bangkok will be affected as waters from upper reaches are drained through San Saeb canal and others. (We) need to utilize drainpipe network in Bangkok to release waters into the sea as soon as possible before the high tide period at the end of this month," said the premier.

Heavy flooding has continued across the country for almost three months, affecting some 9.4 million people so far and causing economic damage of at least three billion baht.

Editor: Yamei Wang

English.news.cn 2011-10-23 16:18:19 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Oct. 23 (Xinhua)

Flood death toll in Thailand reported at 356

2011-10-24T01:58:00.001-07:00

Flood death toll in Thailand reported at 356

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation on Sunday reported that 356 people were killed in flood-related incidents while two missing.

Flooding still continues in 28 provinces in northern, northeastern, central and easten regions where some 2.4 million people are still suffering, according to the department reported on Sunday.

The country's most severe floods in over 50 years have affected at least 9.4 million people in 62 provinces, or four-fifths of the country, since July 25. Hundreds of highways and roads have been inundated while 18 north-bound trian routes suspended.

Thailand is among other Southeast Asian countries -- Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines and Vietnam -- which have been battered by heavy monsoon floods and tropical storms. According to estimation by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs issued recently, more than 700 people in the region were killed.

Editor: Yamei Wang

English.news.cn 2011-10-23 15:04:20 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Oct. 23 (Xinhua)

Malaysia pledges one mln USD to aid Thai flood

2011-10-22T21:31:00.001-07:00

Malaysia pledges one mln USD to aid Thai flood

The Malaysian government said it would donate one million U.S. dollars to help Thailand overcome the flood disaster.

"We feel sad and sympathize with the people of Thailand following the flood," Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said on Saturday.

"That's why in the early stage we decided at the Cabinet on the aid although there was no request for it," he said.

Flash floods and mudslide triggered by the heavy monsoon rain and overflow from several dams in Thailand since mid July have killed a total of 356 people and affected about 9.1 million people, according to the Thai Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department.

Floods inundated the northern part of the country for almost three months, prompting the government to invoke a provision under a disaster prevention and mitigation act, following which all floodgates in the country would be opened to allow excess floodwater flow into the river and the sea.

Editor: yan

English.news.cn 2011-10-23 00:24:29 FeedbackPrintRSS
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 22 (Xinhua)

Thai flood death toll rises to 356

2011-10-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Thai flood death toll rises to 356

A total of 356 people were confirmed dead and two people were missing in the floods that have inundated the upper part of the country for almost three months, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported on Saturday.

Flash floods and mudslide triggered by the heavy monsoon rain and overflow from several dams have affected about 2.8 million households and about 9.1 million people in 62 of 77 provinces since mid July.

On Saturday, floods still prevail in 28 provinces with 75 main highways impassable and 18 north-bound train routes being cancelled.

Editor: Deng Shasha

English.news.cn 2011-10-22 15:03:56 FeedbackPrintRSS
BANGKOK, Oct. 22 (Xinhua)