Bangkok: Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has announced plans to meet with the Sri Lankan ambassador on November 19th to discuss the future of two elephants, Plai Pratu Pha and Srinarong. These elephants are expected to return to Thailand as part of a diplomatic agreement between the two nations.
According to Thai News Agency, Suchart emphasized the importance of this meeting as a matter between governments. He expressed the need for diplomatic engagement and urged Thai citizens who care for these elephants to understand the necessity of this approach. Suchart highlighted the significance of government-to-government communication in resolving the situation.
He clarified that the process is not about reclaiming belongings but rather about fostering understanding and empathy between the two countries. Suchart mentioned that the meeting would focus on negotiating the return of the elephants through diplomatic channels.
Regarding the possibility of reversing the situation, Suchart stated that the issue is tied to a social contract and refrained from commenting further. He expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for their support in facilitating this diplomatic discussion, reiterating the importance of maintaining government-level communication in this matter.