Bangkok: "Siriphong" insists the signing of the MOU on rare earth minerals is transparent, under Thai law, and in the national interest. The spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office confirmed that every step of the operations under the MOU is transparent, in accordance with Thai law, and prioritizes the national interest.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Government Spokesperson, addressed Thailand's signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation on rare earth minerals with the United States, reassuring them that the agreement is merely a framework for cooperation and that no mining rights have been granted to foreign countries. The Thai government is committed to transparency, and every step of operations under the MOU will be open and subject to Thai law.
The government is aware that some rare earth minerals may have an impact and will not permit any mining without first undergoing an environmental assessment and consultation with local residents. The government will not trade Thailand's environment for benefits that are not beneficial to the country.
In this regard, we would like to see the MOU as beneficial for Thailand, including the development of new technological knowledge and investments, as well as enhancing the country's economic and energy security.