PM affirms neutral Ukraine war stance

Thailand will not take sides in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, confirmed Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha in advance of a top-level US-Asean meeting that he will be attending in Washington DC next week.

During a media briefing at Government House yesterday, Gen Prayut talked about his upcoming trip to America for the US-Asean Special Summit from May 12-13.

He said his attendance is required as per other Asean meetings such as the recent Japan-Asean summit and the China-Asean summit.

Given Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there might be some opinions about it during the meeting, Gen Prayut said. He added there is a broad range of issues that Asean leaders will want to discuss with US President Joe Biden and his administration.

Thailand supports Asean’s stance over the conflict which promotes the need for peaceful dialogue among the parties concerned, he said.

“I am going as a member country of Asean to discuss the economy, trade, investment and situations in the region. I will put my best effort into it,” said Gen Prayut.

“Do not listen to those who cluelessly voice their opinions. They might have done it out of good intentions but I believe the person whom you should listen to is your prime minister.”

He added that his seven-year experience as PM guaranteed his insight into international affairs and Thailand’s appropriate stance.

Usana Berananda, director-general of the Department of Asean Affairs, said there would be a discussion on RussiaUkraine at the summit as well as on tensions in the South China Sea and the crisis in Myanmar.

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon will be in charge of national affairs while Gen Prayut is away from May 11-15.