MANILA, Philippines – Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that authorities are closely monitoring the Middle East and stand ready to evacuate Thai citizens immediately if necessary, following the resumption of hostilities. Speaking in Manila after a ministry assessment meeting, Sihasak emphasized that the government is fully prepared for all scenarios to ensure the safety of Thai nationals in the region, building on previous successful evacuations from Iran. On the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Sihasak also addressed the situation in Myanmar. He stated that Thailand advocates for direct dialogue and engagement alongside the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus.
Thailand has offered to facilitate peace talks between the Myanmar government and ethnic minority groups in Bangkok or Pattaya. Sihasak noted that progress would be gradual, pointing to recent developments such as the transfer of Aung San Suu Kyi from prison, while adding that allowing the ASEAN Special Envoy—the Philippine Foreign Minister—to meet with her would mark further progress. He urged ASEAN to adopt a realistic approach, suggesting that the bloc should respond positively, such as allowing Myanmar’s foreign minister back into meetings, if verifiable progress is made. Furthermore, the ASEAN Special Envoy plans to visit Myanmar to push for humanitarian aid delivery via the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) and international groups. (TNA)
