Bangkok: “Phumtham” admits that solving the southern unrest is not easy, it has been a long-standing issue. Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, discussed the challenges associated with addressing the conflict in Thailand’s southern border provinces. The issue, which has persisted for many years, is a primary concern for both Thai and Malaysian leadership.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham emphasized the collaborative efforts between the Thai and Malaysian prime ministers to find an urgent solution and foster economic development in the affected areas. The comments were made following discussions with Mr. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, during the ASEAN Security Council meeting in Malaysia. The meeting, attended by Mr. Chatchai Bangchuad, Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC), focused on the ongoing conflict in the southern border provinces.
Mr. Phumtham acknowledged the complexity of the issue, noting that it cannot be easily resolved due to its protracted nature. However, he stressed the shared commitment of both nations to enhance local economic development for mutual benefit. He mentioned ongoing efforts and expressed optimism about the potential for positive outcomes through these bilateral initiatives.