Bangkok: Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, recently attended a meeting with Pheu Thai Party MPs, which included participation from ministers of the party. The purpose of the meeting was to engage with the public's feedback and address pressing issues swiftly. During the meeting, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude towards MPs for their support in communicating and resolving critical issues.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister acknowledged her absence from recent party meetings due to the emergence of several significant issues. She assured attendees that efforts would be made to address these concerns effectively. Additionally, she expressed appreciation for the MPs' efforts in disseminating results and providing valuable opinions that aid in explaining government initiatives to the public.
A key topic of discussion was the successful passage of the draft budget bill for the fiscal year 2026, which was achieved through collaborative voting. The Prime Minister highlighted the cabinet's recent decision to implement measures aimed at assisting sugarcane farmers, with a dedicated budget of 5,157 million Baht. This initiative is expected to mitigate PM 2.5 pollution by reducing dust and smoke from burning activities. The government is also promoting the sale of leaves for electricity generation to create income for villagers.
The meeting further discussed the development of agricultural products, with a focus on enhancing seed quality. The Ministries of Agriculture and Cooperatives, along with the Ministry of Commerce, are working together to address challenges faced by farmers, particularly in rice production. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for alternative crop cultivation to enhance export competitiveness and vowed to provide government support and guidance.
During the meeting, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, made an appearance, prompting a light-hearted exchange with the Prime Minister about their frequent encounters due to security matters.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister announced that detailed consideration of the economic stimulus budget would take place soon, with an emphasis on resolving flood and drought issues. She stressed the importance of long-term solutions to reduce the recurring budgetary burden associated with these challenges.
International affairs, particularly the Thai-Cambodian border situation, were also a focal point of the meeting. A special center, led by the Deputy Minister of Defense, is actively monitoring the situation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is set to provide clarification to the party's communications team to ensure consistent messaging to the public.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from Pheu Thai Party MPs to remain attentive to agricultural product pricing and to address any arising problems promptly. The party has established a clinic to listen to public concerns and devise solutions, with ministers from all ministries actively participating.