Bangkok: The Prime Minister led a delegation to visit Laos with the objective of enhancing bilateral relations across various sectors, including the economy, energy, and trade, as well as tackling drug suppression. During this visit, the Prime Minister confirmed that efforts to crack down on scammers are progressing smoothly, amid concerns over potential political involvement. He emphasized that both the police and the Ministry of Justice are actively working on this issue without being influenced by external trends.
According to Thai News Agency, at 7:20 a.m., Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, alongside his delegation, departed from the Royal Thai Air Force for an official visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). The delegation included notable figures such as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Energy Minister Atthapol Rerkpiboon, Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, Deputy Minister of Defense Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Deputy Minister of Interior Songsak Thongsri, and Government Spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat. This visit, made at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonxay Siphandone, is the first for the Prime Minister to Thailand and Laos, commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
The Prime Minister expressed his intentions before departing for the Lao People's Democratic Republic, highlighting that this visit, his first mission since assuming office, aims to bolster the relationship between the two nations. Areas of focus include enhancing economic ties, energy cooperation, security, trade, and collaborative efforts in drug prevention and suppression.
When questioned about the cooperation in suppressing scammers, the Prime Minister acknowledged its importance and the comprehensive nature of the issue. However, he refrained from disclosing detailed plans, urging reporters to focus on broader policies and frameworks instead.
Additionally, the Prime Minister mentioned a scheduled phone call with the President of the Republic of Korea in Vientiane, intended to discuss the APEC Leaders' Summit following the ASEAN Summit. When asked about the inclusion of scammers in the discussions, the Prime Minister noted its relevance as a current affair impacting society, the economy, and politics.
Regarding the overall status of the crackdown on scammers, the Prime Minister indicated that discussions are progressing positively. He assured that once significant progress is achieved, more details would be shared.
Addressing criticisms about potential political involvement in hindering the crackdown, the Prime Minister firmly stated that no obstacles exist and that efforts are ongoing. He highlighted the continuous work by both the police and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, emphasizing that actions are based on established protocols rather than trends.
In response to inquiries about the framework and objectives of the newly established committee, the Prime Minister explained that the framework aligns with official directives, with Police General Phermpoon Chidchob, Advisor to the Prime Minister, leading the operational and coordinating efforts. While hopeful for excellent results, the Prime Minister remained cautious about setting specific expectations.
When asked about potential requests from countries like South Korea or international organizations such as the United States for cooperation in crackdowns, the Prime Minister concluded the session with a smile and expressed gratitude before leaving the interview room.