4 September 2023 at 05:25 PUBLISHED
On Sunday, foreign minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, defense secretary Sutin Klungsang, and prime minister Srettha Thavisin had breakfast with coming military officials to talk about military and security matters.
As the state prepares a scheme speech to be presented to congress, the conference was intended to ensure smooth cooperation between the Pheu Thai-led state and the armed forces.
Gen Songwit Noonpakdi, the approaching commander of defense forces, Gen Charoenchai Hintao, and Adm Adung Phan – iam, who will take over the top position on Oct. 1, were present at the luncheon. ACM Panpakdee Pattanakul, the approaching chief of the air force, did not attend because he was away.
It was claimed that the meeting would only discuss the policy platform and not go into specifics. The government was prepared to support weapons procurement techniques if they were deemed essential to national security, Mr. Srettha told the top brass when they first met.
Following the meeting, Mr. Sutin stated that the approaching military leaders had indicated a willingness to adhere to the government’s plan, including the suggested switch from recruitment to deliberate enlistment and downsizing of the military.
He stated that while the reduction of the army could be seen as early as 2027, the number of military conscripts was anticipated to be significantly reduced the following year.
He claimed that the conference also discussed the requirements and worries of the armed forces.
The dialogue and the army’s responses to the authorities policy, according to Mr. Sutin, satisfied the prime minister.
Mr. Sutin was scheduled to meet with previous defense secretary ACM Sukhumpol Suwanatat on Monday after previously seeking suggestions from Gen Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayudhaya.
According to reports, he is likely to name former National Security Council secretary-general Gen Natthapon Nakpanich and previous defense fixed director Gen Nipat Thonglek as his assistants.
Previous Fourth Army chief MP Gen Phisan Wattanawongkhiri, who is on the Pheu Thai list, could be chosen to serve as his advisor.
Gen. Nipat claimed yesterday that Mr. Sutin approached him to work as an associate and requested that he examine the group’s reform and military conscription policies.