BANGKOK, Oct 17 (TNA) – Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha expressed confidence that the new chief for southern peace talks would be able to solve security problems in the far South.
He was referring to the change of Thailand’s head for peace talks with southern insurgent groups from Gen Aksara Kerdpol to Gen Udomchai Thammasarorat, a former commander of the 4th Army Region.
Gen Aksara had worked hard for years and made progress in the reduction of violent incidents in the far South. Gen Udomchai suited the role as he was a local resident and had commanded the 4th Army Region that supervised the South, Gen Prayut said.
“Peace talks are not peace negotiations. Thailand is not fighting against any party. The talks are aimed to encourage local people to cooperate, not support those behind violent attacks and help empower society. Although the government is seriously trying to enforce laws, without locals’ cooperation, problems cannot be solved,” the prime minister said.
Gen Prayut also said that Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad would officially visit Thailand on Oct 24-25 and then he would discuss with the Malaysian counterpart possible solutions to violence in southern border provinces. (TNA)
