BANGKOK, 28 August 2013 Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul confirmed former British prime minister Tony Blair’s attendance at next month’s political forum in Thailand, despite recent protest over his visit.
Mr Surapong said Thailand can benefit from the forum which is being held to provide insights from other world leaders who have been involved in peace dialogues in other regions. He insisted the forum is part of a solution to the ongoing political turmoil.
Apart from Mr Blair, 11 other world politicians including former President of Finland Marti Ahtisaari and expert on truth commissions and transitional justice Priscilla Hayner are set to deliver keynote remarks at the event.
Protesters had told the press that they do not agree with the government’s plan to pay Mr Blair 20 million baht to speak at the upcoming forum. The government has so far denied the protesters’ claim.
